DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — History will be unveiled at the U.S. Capitol this week when a statue of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune goes on display.

Sunday marked the civil rights pioneers’ 147th birthday.

Known for her role in advancing the educational rights of African-American women in the country, she also served as an advisor for President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

“It’s wonderful to be able to acknowledge her for who she was,” said Kenneth Hunt while standing in a room dedicated to Dr. Bethune.

Hunt never planned on being a history enthusiast, but the lifestyle has become perfect for what he’s creating in Daytona Beach.

Four years ago, he purchased a property that has now transformed into a historian’s paradise.

The Hunt House is a vacation rental with rooms made to honor historical figures such as Dr. Bethune.

“It’s quite rewarding. I appreciate it, the guests appreciate it, and it just gives them an added benefit for the vacation to be able to take something home from an educational perspective,” Hunt said.

Dr. Bethune left behind a positive influence that can be felt all over the country, especially in Daytona Beach.

The school she opened back in 1904 has shaped many lives. 

Hunt felt it was only suitable to have a room to represent the educational pioneer.

This week, he’s traveling to Washington D.C. to witness her statue displayed in the U.S. Capitol.

“I just need to be in that area and that atmosphere because it’s important to me.”

Dr. Bethune will be the first-ever Black person with a state-commissioned statue in the U.S. Capitols Statutory Hall. 

The marble sculpture will replace a confederate general previously standing in the Capitol.

Bethune-Cookman University will host a watch party on Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. to celebrate the event.

A live stream of the unveiling will take place at Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center.