Bridget “Biddy” Mason – African American Entrepreneur
Bridget "Biddy" Mason stands as a remarkable figure in American history, an embodiment of resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering commitment to her community. Born into slavery, she transcended the chains of oppression to become a successful businesswoman, a respected nurse and midwife, and a generous philanthropist in Los Angeles, California. Her life story is a testament to the power of determination and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity. Bridget “Biddy” Mason’s legacy continues to inspire generations.
Born on August 15, 1818, in Hancock County, Georgia, Bridget “Biddy” Mason’s early life was defined by the brutal realities of slavery. She was born into bondage and given as property to Robert Smith upon his marriage. The Smith family subsequently relocated to Mississippi, further uprooting Biddy from any semblance of stability or control over her own destiny. This early period of her life, marked by forced labor and the constant threat of separation from loved ones, undoubtedly shaped her resolve to secure freedom and build a better future.
The Smiths’ conversion to Mormonism in Mississippi introduced a complex dynamic. While the Mormon Church advocated for the freeing of slaves, Robert Smith chose to disregard this tenet, clinging to his ownership of Biddy and others. This decision underscored the hypocrisy prevalent during that era, where religious ideals often clashed with the deeply ingrained economic and social structures of slavery. In 1847, the Smiths joined other Mormon families in a westward migration to Utah. This arduous journey across the country would have been physically demanding and emotionally taxing for all involved, but particularly so for those enslaved, who were forced to serve their masters without any compensation or hope of liberation.
The Smiths’ westward journey did not end in Utah. In 1851, they joined a group that ventured further west to San Bernardino, California. California, unlike Utah, had entered the Union as a "free state" in 1850. This designation theoretically prohibited slavery within its borders. However, the reality on the ground was far more complex. Many slaveholders, like Robert Smith, attempted to circumvent the law, exploiting loopholes and relying on the prevailing attitudes of racial prejudice to maintain their control over enslaved people. The presence of enslaved individuals in California, despite its "free state" status, created a precarious and volatile situation.
Despite the legal landscape of California, Smith continued to resist calls to emancipate his slaves. His decision to relocate to Texas, a slave state, in 1856 underscored his unwavering commitment to maintaining his ownership of Biddy and others. This impending move to Texas presented a dire threat to Biddy’s hopes for freedom. Knowing that she and her children would be subjected to even harsher conditions under Texas law, Biddy made a courageous decision to escape, a pivotal moment in her journey towards liberation.
Biddy’s escape, though fraught with risk, marked the beginning of her active pursuit of freedom. However, her initial attempt was thwarted when Smith caught up with her and the other escaping slaves. Fortunately, as Smith was attempting to leave California, a local posse intervened, preventing him from taking Biddy and the others out of the state. This intervention, spurred by the efforts of free Black residents and abolitionist allies, was instrumental in ensuring that Biddy and her family had the opportunity to fight for their freedom in the California courts. The posse brought Smith to a halt as he was making his way out of California.
Biddy and the other enslaved people seized this opportunity. They bravely petitioned a court in Los Angeles for their freedom. This legal battle represented a significant turning point in Biddy’s life. She, along with her children, testified against Smith, recounting the hardships they had endured and asserting their right to be free. The court, recognizing the injustice of their enslavement and upholding the laws of California, granted their petition, officially declaring them free. This victory was not merely a legal triumph; it was a profound affirmation of their humanity and their right to self-determination.
With her newfound freedom, Bridget “Biddy” Mason embarked on a remarkable journey of self-reliance and entrepreneurial success. She found work as a nurse and midwife in Los Angeles, utilizing skills she had likely acquired during her time in slavery. Biddy’s dedication and compassion quickly earned her a reputation as a skilled and caring healthcare provider. She meticulously saved her earnings, displaying a remarkable level of financial discipline and foresight.
Her astute financial planning enabled her to achieve a groundbreaking milestone: she became one of the first African American women to purchase real estate in Los Angeles. This investment marked the beginning of her ascent as a successful businesswoman and a prominent figure in the city’s burgeoning African American community. Biddy’s real estate ventures proved to be incredibly lucrative. She continued to invest in land, strategically acquiring properties that would appreciate in value over time. Through her shrewd business acumen, she amassed a substantial fortune, estimated at nearly $300,000 at the time, a testament to her intelligence and hard work.
Beyond her financial success, Bridget “Biddy” Mason is remembered for her unwavering commitment to philanthropy and community upliftment. She used her wealth to support a variety of causes, focusing on those that would benefit the most vulnerable members of society. She played a crucial role in founding a traveler’s aid center, providing assistance to those who were new to the city or facing hardship. Recognizing the importance of education, she established an elementary school for Black children, providing them with access to learning opportunities that were often denied to them due to racial discrimination.
Perhaps her most enduring legacy is her role in founding the First African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) in Los Angeles. This church, the city’s first and oldest Black church, served as a spiritual and social center for the African American community, providing a place of worship, fellowship, and mutual support. Biddy’s contributions to the AME Church extended beyond financial support. She was actively involved in its activities, serving as a leader and mentor to its members.
Bridget “Biddy” Mason died in Los Angeles on January 15, 1891, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, entrepreneurship, and unwavering dedication to her community. Her life story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of education, hard work, and community engagement. Biddy Mason’s name is synonymous with perseverance and philanthropy in the history of Los Angeles. Her contributions to the city’s social and economic landscape continue to be celebrated today. She stands as an inspiration to all who strive to overcome adversity and build a better future for themselves and their communities. Her story reminds us that even in the face of immense challenges, it is possible to achieve remarkable things through determination, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Bridget “Biddy” Mason remains a true legend.