Biddy Mason, a formerly enslaved woman, rose to prominence in 19th-century Los Angeles as one of the city’s wealthiest landowners and a revered philanthropist.
Often referred to as the “Queen Mother” or “Grandmother of Los Angeles,” her extraordinary story is largely untold, despite her lasting contributions to the city.
Her memorial, quietly situated in downtown Los Angeles on Spring Street, offers a glimpse into her life. Visitors may walk past the site without realizing that it was once her home, one of the most opulent in Los Angeles at the time.
Born into slavery, Biddy Mason remained illiterate her entire life, as it was illegal for enslaved Black people to learn to read or write.
Despite this, she signed her property deeds with an “X” and became a real estate baron, acquiring several properties in what is now downtown Los Angeles.
Biddy’s achievements go beyond her financial success. She was a key figure in early Los Angeles, known for her philanthropic efforts.
Her contributions to the community included providing aid to those in need, particularly during times of crisis, such as outbreaks of illness.
However, her story, like so many others from the Black diaspora, remains relatively unknown. Tariq Nasheed, filmmaker and founder of the Hidden History Museum, has spoken passionately about the importance of recognizing the contributions of African Americans like Biddy Mason.]
The museum, set to be built on Crenshaw Boulevard, will shine a light on hidden stories of African-American scholars, leaders, and innovators.
“History is usually told by the people who won,” said Dr. Darnell Hunt, a sociologist and professor of African-American studies at UCLA. “We don’t often have control over our own narratives and our own stories.”
The Hidden History Museum aims to rectify this by uncovering and celebrating the contributions of African Americans throughout history.
As more efforts are made to bring Biddy Mason’s story to the forefront, her legacy as a trailblazing businesswoman and philanthropist continues to inspire generations.
Her life is a toast to resilience, self-determination, and the importance of preserving untold histories.
