Nashville Honors Trailblazer Elizabeth Duff with a New Mural
Nashville is buzzing with excitement after a heartfelt tribute to one of its trailblazers, Elizabeth Duff. This month, a stunning mural dedicated to Elizabeth was unveiled at the WeGo Central station, serving as a beautiful reminder of her legacy. Elizabeth made history in 1974 when she became the first woman to drive a bus for what was then known as the Metro Transit Authority. Today, her pioneering spirit continues to inspire the community in more ways than one.
A Historic Legacy
Elizabeth’s story is not just about breaking barriers; it’s about paving the way for future generations. Her story is a beacon for everyone, especially for young girls and women aspiring to make their mark in fields dominated by men. At the mural unveiling, her widower, Harry Duff, shared touching words. “I thank God for Elizabeth and my daughters and granddaughters,” he said, his voice filled with pride. “They’ve got Elizabeth Duff to look up to. They can look at Elizabeth’s life and pattern their lives after that and know which route to take.”
Mayor Freddie O’Connell’s Vision
While honoring such an incredible woman, Mayor Freddie O’Connell took the opportunity to discuss Nashville’s future in public transit. Speaking passionately at the ceremony on September 12, he urged attendees to participate in the transit referendum on the upcoming November 5 ballot. O’Connell highlighted that WeGo ridership had recently surpassed pre-pandemic levels, illustrating a growing community interest and need for improved transit options.
“I can’t think of a better message for this time and this place than leveraging the story of Music City’s rich heritage and diverse communities,” O’Connell remarked. He emphasized that the mural not only celebrates Elizabeth but aims to inspire riders and operators alike, especially the young women of Nashville. “This is also a time to think about the future,” he added, pointing to how the community can come together to invest in better transit options through initiatives like “Choose How You Move.”
A Beautiful Collaboration
The mural designed by Elisheba Israel Mrozik along with local nonprofit Creative Girls Rock is nothing short of spectacular. Spanning several bus-lengths, it features a stunning portrait of Elizabeth, created by Maplewood High School senior Kammarah Stevens. The mural is packed with details, from iconic landmarks like the Ryman Auditorium to delightful hidden treasures that Mrozik wants visitors to discover. It’s an art piece that tells Nashville’s story in a unique way, showcasing the city’s history beyond what most people know.
Empowering the Next Generation
Creative Girls Rock has made quite an impact in the community, with 13 murals completed and over 160 young women participating in their programs. Founder Charmin Bates emphasized the importance of this project: “We use these mural projects as educational components. They are learning the different colors, meanings behind colors and art, and empowering our young artists to say, ‘You can do this.’”
Family Legacy Continues
As if the mural itself wasn’t enough to honor Elizabeth, it also features her son Seneca Duff and grandson Emmanuel Smith Duff, both of whom followed in her footsteps as bus drivers for WeGo. Seneca fondly recalls riding on the bus his mother drove, which highlights the deep-rooted connection the family shares with their legacy. Although he was hesitant at first to take on the same role, Seneca now embodies his mother’s friendly nature when serving the public.
Emmanuel, who initially struggled with the idea of driving a bus, found his footing after taking the plunge again this year — spurred on by his grandmother’s encouragement. “When I first started, I didn’t know if I would like driving the bus because I was always intimidated by it,” he admitted. This newfound confidence is a testament to Elizabeth’s enduring spirit and mentorship in their lives.
A Bright Future for Nashville
Nashville is not just celebrating its past. It’s also rallying around its future, using Elizabeth Duff’s story as a catalyst for inspiration and change. With murals, public transit initiatives, and a thriving community spirit, it’s clear: Nashville is both honoring its heritage and looking forward to what lies ahead.
