When Bessie Coleman took to the skies in the early 20th century, she did more than fly—she shattered ceilings. Born in 1892 in Atlanta, Texas, Bessie became the first African American and Native American woman to earn a pilot’s license. Her story is one of courage, persistence, and a refusal to be limited by the barriers of race and gender.
The Raven has so many stories to tell, and as we write her next chapter we are so excited to share her past. When 525 W Beaver St became available, we saw a unique opportunity to breathe new life into a space long associated with farewells. The 106-year-old building is believed to be Florida’s first funeral home and is rich