Sarah’s Oil: The Untold Story of Faith, Fortune, and Resilience

Some stories are too powerful to be hidden in history books. Sarah’s Oil, premiering in theaters nationwide on November 7, 2025, brings to the big screen the extraordinary true story of Sarah Rector, a young African American girl whose faith and determination changed her life—and the course of American history.

A Child of Faith, A Land of Promise

Born in 1902 in Indian Territory (modern-day Oklahoma), Sarah Rector was the daughter of Creek Freedmen, descendants of enslaved people recognized within the Creek Nation. At just a young age, Sarah was allotted 159 acres of what many considered barren, unusable land—land others dismissed as a burden rather than a blessing. But Sarah, with a heart full of faith, believed otherwise. She trusted that God had placed something greater beneath the soil.

Her belief was not in vain. In 1913, when Sarah was only eleven years old, an oil well on her land struck rich. Overnight, the little girl from Glenpool, Oklahoma, became one of the nation’s youngest African American millionaires, forever remembered in headlines as “the richest colored girl in America.”

Wealth, Exploitation, and Resilience

While the discovery of oil transformed Sarah’s life, it also drew the attention of opportunists, lawyers, and oil speculators eager to exploit her newfound wealth. Because of systemic racial laws and biases of the time, Sarah was placed under white guardianship, limiting her control over her finances and life choices. She faced relentless pressure—from marriage proposals to manipulative guardianship arrangements—designed to strip her of her independence.

Still, Sarah’s story is not merely one of exploitation but of resilience. With courage and the support of family, allies, and her own determination, she fought to reclaim control of her life and assets. Eventually, she invested wisely in property, businesses, and real estate, creating a legacy that outlived the exploitation she endured.

A Story That Still Resonates

More than a century later, Sarah Rector’s life is a reminder of faith, perseverance, and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. Her story illuminates how race, wealth, and power intersected in early 20th-century America—and how those dynamics continue to echo in society today.

A Story That Still Resonates

More than a century later, Sarah Rector’s life is a reminder of faith, perseverance, and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. Her story illuminates how race, wealth, and power intersected in early 20th-century America—and how those dynamics continue to echo in society today.

The Film That Brings History to Life

Sarah’s Oil, produced by Amazon MGM Studios, Wonder Project, and Kingdom Story Company, dramatizes this remarkable and often overlooked piece of history. Inspired by Tonya Bolden’s acclaimed book Searching for Sarah Rector: The Richest Black Girl in America, the film captures both the triumph and tragedy of Sarah’s journey—her faith in barren land, the oil that changed her destiny, and the battle to protect what was rightfully hers.

Filmed in Oklahoma, the movie brings authenticity to Sarah’s world, blending dramatic storytelling with historical truth. It is not only a cinematic experience but also a cultural moment—an opportunity to honor Sarah Rector’s enduring legacy and to spark conversations about wealth, race, and resilience in America.

Exclusive Pre-Screening Buzz

At the recent pre-screening event, the excitement was palpable. Attendees described the film as “moving,” “empowering,” and “a story the world needs right now.” With breathtaking performances and a gripping narrative, Sarah’s Oil promises to inspire audiences of all generations, proving once again that history’s hidden stories still hold power today.

Mark Your Calendars

Don’t miss the chance to witness history brought to life. Sarah’s Oil opens exclusively in theaters on November 7, 2025.

Watch the trailer: YouTube

Learn more:www.sarahsoilfilm.com

Follow: @sarahsoilfilm | #SarahsOil