As the nation celebrates Black History Month, few figures embody the spirit of perseverance, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy quite like Biddy Mason.
Born into slavery in 1818, Mason overcame unimaginable hardship to become one of the wealthiest landowners in Los Angeles—all while dedicating her life to serving others.
Mason’s journey began in Mississippi, where she was enslaved and later sold to Robert Smith, a plantation owner who forced her and others on a grueling 1,700-mile trek to Utah.
She walked the entire way—while caring for children, herding cattle, and working as a midwife. In 1851, Smith brought her to California, where slavery was illegal.
A court battle ensued, and in 1856, Mason won her freedom.
A Trailblazing Entrepreneur
Once free, Mason took control of her future. Working as a midwife and nurse, she saved her earnings for a decade before making a historic purchase in 1866: land in downtown Los Angeles.
At a time when Black people were barred from owning property in many parts of the country, Mason defied the odds. Her real estate investments grew, and she became a prominent businesswoman, later selling land to other Black families who were shut out due to redlining policies.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Despite her wealth, Mason never turned her back on her community. In 1872, she founded the First African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, Los Angeles’ first Black church, which still thrives today.
She also paid for groceries for struggling families, nursed the sick, helped prisoners, and provided aid to flood victims.
Why Her Story Matters Today
Mason’s contributions remain largely unrecognized, despite her monumental impact on Los Angeles. While she has a small park and memorial in downtown L.A., her legacy deserves far greater recognition.
As we honor Black pioneers this month, Biddy Mason’s story of vision, and selfless service is worth celebrating. From enslaved laborer to a real estate mogul and philanthropist, she shattered barriers and uplifted countless lives—a true inspiration for generations to come.
