The Full Story of

Dr. Ella Mae Piper

In the late 19th century, a remarkable woman was born whose legacy would shape the heart of Fort Myers for generations: Dr. Ella Mae Piper. Born Ella M. Jones on March 8, 1884, in Brunswick, Georgia, she was a trailblazer in every sense—an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community leader.

Honoring a Legacy: Dr. Ella Mae Piper

Born in 1884 in Brunswick, Georgia, Dr. Ella Mae Piper was a visionary whose impact on Fort Myers still shines today. A graduate of Spelman College and Rohrer’s Institute of Beauty Culture in New York, she became a respected chiropodist and entrepreneur.

After moving to Fort Myers in 1915, Dr. Piper opened the city’s first beauty shop and later established her chiropody practice. Her business savvy led her to own the Big 4 Bottling Company—where sodas sold for just five cents.

That very site now houses the Dr. Piper Center, continuing her legacy of service, empowerment, and community care.

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A Legacy of Love and Service

In 1915, Sarah Williams—while working in the Heitman home—hosted her first Christmas Celebration for the children of Dunbar Heights. What began as a small gathering of 15 girls soon became a cherished community tradition. After Sarah’s passing in 1926, her daughter, Dr. Ella Mae Piper, carried the torch, growing the event into a beloved annual celebration that now brings joy to over 600 children each Christmas Day on the Dr. Piper Center lawn.

But Dr. Piper’s impact didn’t stop there. A dedicated civic leader, she helped build Dunbar Community School, supported scholarships to Tuskegee College, and uplifted the elderly and underserved with her time, resources, and heart. She held leadership roles in the Elks Lodge, founded the Tranquillo Temple, and was deeply involved in her church and community.

Dr. Piper’s final gift was her greatest: she left her property to the City of Fort Myers to serve children and seniors. That vision lives on today through the Dr. Piper Center, where her legacy continues to inspire service, compassion, and community impact.