Thomas 'Tom' Bradley - Mayor of Los Angeles, California
b) December 19, 1917 - Clavert, Texas
d) September 29, 1998 - Los Angeles, California

Alvin Ailey - Choreographer - Dance Impresario
b) January 5, 1931 - Rogers, Texas
d) December 1, 1989 - New York, New York

Arrived in Los Angles in 1942 with his mother.
Attended Carver Junior High School and Thomas Jefferson
High School An aspiring dancer, in 1949 his career flourished
after he was introduced to the renowned choreographer Lester Horton.

In 1969 he established the Alvin Ailey Dance Center
School in New York City. It later became the Alvin Ailey Dance Academy.
His choreographic style was influence by modern, ballet and jazz
dance, which exemplified the African American experience and is
reflected in the concert performances of the Alvin Ailey (Company).
Today, Alvin Ailey is one of the most respected dance companies in the world.

Additional info: http://www.africanaencyclopedia.com
http://blackhistory.eb.com


Bridget 'Biddy' Mason - Prominent Early California
Settler & Landowner
b) August 15, 1818 Hancock, Mississippi
d) January 15, 1891 Los Angeles, California

Raised as a slave on John Smithson's plantation.
She traveled with her Mormon owners to Utah and finally
to California. As a freedwoman she purchased various
parcels of land in Los Angeles. A philanthropist,
she operated a nursery and food pantry. She was a midwife. and nurse
and throughout her life cared for the less fortunate and destitute.
She founded the First African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church.

Additional info: http://www.africanaencyclopedia.com
http://blackhistory.eb.com