Cora was born on Broome Street. This area was just south of “Little Africa,” a neighborhood in Greenwich Village that was known for “black and tan” establishments. This was the euphemism used for mixed-race tenements, shops, bars, and churches. Cora grew up to become a well-known singer and tap dancer. Her enjoyment of singing and dancing is evident in her short film That’s The Spirit with Noble Sissle & Band