In the past few years, the US mint has crafted quarters to spotlight the remarkable accomplishments of women. Funny enough, I've only just learned about this. As we approach the final stretch of 2023, I decided to read about these exceptional women and reflect on their legacies. In a delightful twist, I shifted through my change jar and realized I already had some of these 2023 tribute coins.My research about the honorees of these small tokens began with the story of Bessie Coleman. While you can find more about her online, here are some of my cherished facts about her.
Coleman was an early American civil aviator and the first African-American/self-identified Native American woman to hold a pilot's license (1921). Born in Atlanta, Texas, and raised by sharecroppers, she later moved to Waxahachie before settling in Chicago at the age of 23. With the support of Robert Abbott, publisher of the Chicago Defender newspaper, she managed to pursue studies in France and acquire her license. She had to travel there due to country not allowing flight training for African Americans and women in the US at that time.
🛩️ Her flying exploits earned her the nicknames "Queen Bess" and "Brave Bessie," a testament to the daring stunts she fearlessly executed. Other honors include a January 26, 2017 Google doodle tribute, American Airlines commemorated her with a special flight from DFW to Phoenix which was operated by an all-black female crew, and Mattel's Bessie Coleman Barbie.
Among the most touching notes that I read was that Mae Carol Jemison, the first African American woman in space, carried a picture of Bessie on her inaugural mission. What a beautiful thread of connection weaving its way through history. Her legacy continues with her namesake, the "Coleman Mons," adorning the edge of Pluto's heart-shaped Tombaugh Regio.
And the story continues...Pluto has a significant geological feature in its southern hemisphere named for another woman highlighted on a 2023 quarter. 'Ride Rupes' is named in honor of Sally Ride, the trailblazing first woman in space. Due to this connection, she will be the next luminary I'll read about in this inspiring series.
 |
| Bessie Coleman, Curtiss Field, L.I. 1922 (Cradle of Aviation Museum) |
"I thought it my duty to risk my life to learn aviation and to encourage flying among men and women of our race, who are so far behind the white race in this modern study."