Willa Mae Ricker

Willa Mae Ricker (née Briggs; 7 April 1910 – June 1978) was a prominent American Lindy Hop and jazz dancer. A performer during the 1930s and 1940s with the Harlem-based Whiteys Lindy Hoppers, she and partner Leon James were featured in a photo essay in the August 23, 1943 issue of LIFE Magazine, demonstrating air steps. Ricker was known for her fashion sense, dependability and business acumen. During World War II, Ricker managed the Harlem Congaroos, a sub-group of Whiteys Lindy Hoppers formed from the premiere dancers. Norma Miller remembers Ricker as the first dancer to stand up to Herbert Whitey White, demanding fair pay .

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