One of seven new entries, all by the McKissacks, in the ``Great African Americans'' series. The text here is condensed almost to outline form and delivered in short, easily read but often choppy sentences. Still, the McKissacks are reliable researchers who manage to pack a substantial amount of information into their brief account, deftly setting this 19th- century entrepreneur in the society of her time and providing all the proper accoutrements of nonfiction, including historical photos to supplement Bryant's serviceable drawings. Workmanlike and sure to be useful. Glossary; index. (Biography. 7-12)