Molly Williams was an African American woman who is recognized as the first female firefighter in the United States. She worked as a servant in a volunteer fire company in New York City during the early 19th century. In 1818, when a fire broke out, Molly Williams took action and helped the firefighters by manning the water pump and working alongside them to extinguish the flames.

Her bravery and dedication in the face of danger during a time when firefighting was a male-dominated field made her a trailblazer for women and African Americans in firefighting. Molly Williams' contributions to firefighting history are an important part of Black history, showcasing the resilience and strength of African American women in breaking barriers and making significant contributions to society.