Here, behind the Bradbury Building lies Biddy Mason Memorial Park. Many Angelenos don’t know about Biddy Mason Park. It sits between Broadway and Spring Streets. This mini-park honors Bridget “Biddy” Mason.
Biddy Mason was born into slavery in 1818. Details of her early life are scarce. As a young adult, she was enslaved in Robert Smith’s household. In 1847, Biddy traveled with the Smiths from Mississippi to Utah. She mostly walked. The Smith family lived in Salt Lake City for two years. In 1851, they resettled in San Bernardino, California.
California became a free state in 1850. This meant Smith was illegally holding Biddy Mason. Biddy fought for her freedom in court. In 1856, the court ruled in her favor. Biddy Mason was finally a free woman.
Biddy settled in Los Angeles with her children. She worked as a nurse and midwife. In 1866, she bought land between present-day Broadway and Spring Street. This is the present location of Biddy Mason Park. She built her homestead here.
Over time, Biddy Mason bought more property. Her wealth grew. She became a generous philanthropist. Biddy Mason was a pioneering Black woman.
Landscape architects Katherine Spitz and Pamela Burton designed Biddy Mason Park. Artist Sheila Levrant de Bretteville created the artwork. It is called Biddy Mason Time and Place. The artwork is an 80-foot-long concrete wall. It shows a timeline of Biddy Mason’s life.
The wall features impressions of agave leaves. Wagon wheels are shown. A midwife’s bag is present. Simple text and images tell her story. An early survey map of Los Angeles is displayed. Biddy Mason’s freedom papers are visible.
The timeline starts on the right end of the wall. It says “Biddy Mason born a slave.” The timeline progresses to the inscription “Los Angeles mourns and reveres Grandma Mason.”
Biddy Mason’s story is inspiring. She overcame slavery. She became a successful businesswoman. She was a generous philanthropist. Biddy Mason helped build Los Angeles. She founded the First African Methodist Episcopal Church. Biddy Mason cared for her community.
Biddy Mason Memorial Park reminds us of her life. The park is a tribute to her legacy. Biddy Mason’s open hand blessed Los Angeles. She gave abundantly. She received blessings in return. This park is a place to remember Biddy Mason’s contributions. It is a place to reflect on her remarkable journey.
Remember Biddy Mason. Her story is a vital part of Los Angeles history. Visit Biddy Mason Memorial Park to learn more about her life. Take a moment to appreciate her enduring legacy. She truly embodies the spirit of Los Angeles.