For over five decades, Dora Atkins has been a pioneering figure in the Indianapolis business world. As the daughter of a prominent African American doctor, she was a freshman at Butler University when her parents passed away in 1923. With the support of her sister Murray, a school teacher, Dora persevered and continued to run her mother’s home-based flower business. After graduating from Butler in 1926, she moved her business to 209 W. 21st St. and established Atkins Flower Shop as one of the premier florists in the city. In 1949, she moved the shop to 2049 N. Capitol Ave. and spent the next 28 years of her life providing customers with beautiful flower arrangements. Her dedication and success was recognized in 1977, when Mayor Bill Hudnut declared Nov. 20 to be Dora Atkins Day in Indianapolis.

Dora Atkins is an inspiring figure for entrepreneurs everywhere. As a young woman from an African American family in 1923, Dora used her entrepreneurial spirit to overcome adversity and open one of the most successful florist shops in Indianapolis. After the passing of her parents, she had the strength and resilience to continue running her mother’s flower business with the help of her sister Murray. In 1926, she relocated her business, now named Atkins Flower Shop, to 209 W. 21st Street and provided customers with quality arrangements for over 50 years. In 1977, not only did she retire after 28 successful years at her last location, 2049 N. Capitol Ave., but Mayor Bill Hudnut also acknowledged her achievement and declared Nov. 20 Dora Atkins Day in Indianapolis. Dora Atkins is a prime example of how hard work and dedication can overcome any obstacle and lead to success. She serves as an inspiration for all entrepreneurs looking to build a successful business.