Group donates items for Coleman display

A dedication ceremony was held Saturday at the Hall-Miller Airport in Atlanta to celebrate the unveiling of a memorial display celebrating the life of Atlanta native Bessie Coleman. Display items were donated to the airport by the East Texas Republican Women’s organization, who sponsored the event.

Airport Board President Mike Lee acted as master of ceremonies and recognized attending dignitaries, which included Mayor Travis Ransom and representation of the local unit of the Civil Air Patrol. Rev. J. Stanmore delivered the dedicatory prayer, and Girl Scout Troop 2158 led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Another Atlanta native, Melody Maxie Cranford, travelled from her current home in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to give a performance as Bessie Coleman. She has developed a historical monologue that she gives while dressed as the aviator that is both entertaining and informative.

Items placed in the glass case include: A Bessie Coleman doll, first edition postage stamps and several books written about the aviator. Additional items and information can be seen at the Regional Historical Museum inside the Atlanta Depot building.