As we continue our discussion on the impact of black history in real estate, for today’s blog we discuss an unsung icon in the California real estate market. Biddy Mason was a true boss lady and real estate kingpin who paved the way for AfricanAmerican women in 19th century Los Angeles. Born a slave in Hancock County,Georgia in 1818, she was brought to Cali with the family that owned her shortly after and was finally set free in 1856 after legal battles over the state of freed people in California. With her savings from working as a nurse and midwife, Biddy invested in property and became one of LA’s biggest landowners. But she didn’t just sit on her wealth, she gave back to her community by building a church and founding a school for Black kids.

Biddy’s story is one of determination, resilience and the power of economic empowerment. She showed that with hard work and smarts, anything is possible. And even now, centuries later, she remains a source of pride and inspiration for the African American community, a symbol of hope and strength. So next time you hear the name Biddy Mason, remember the boss lady who paved the way for all of us!