Although the segregation era prevented African Americans from interacting with whites, it did not prevent them from contributing to society as a whole. Throughout history, African Americans have served as pioneers in various fields.

In the area of medicine, African Americans have invented, discovered, researched, and developed for the betterment of mankind.

The presence of college-educated African American doctors can be traced back to the early 1700s. Several physicians dedicated themselves to caring for the members of their respective community and Tampa was no exception.

Through the pages of history books, the names of such individuals as Dr. Edwin Archie, Dr. George Johnson, Dr. Jacob White, Sr., Dr. Jacob White, Jr., Dr. Imogene Johnson, Dr. Caleb Wright, Dr. James Green, Dr. Carl Norton, Dr. Allen Lester, Dr. Hodgins, Dr. Lewis, Dr. Erwin, Dr. Silas, Dr. Northern, and Dr. Jerome Smith, who operated a Health Center and Clinic can be found.

During the segregation era, African American in the medical field were welcomed in the community just as they continue to play a vital role in today’s society.

They paved the way for others such as Dr. Andrew Jackson, Dr. Fred Smith, Dr. Fred Reddy, Dr. Paul Sheehy, Sr., Dr. James Brookins, Sr., Dr. Charles Meyers, Dr. Sydel Barnes LeGrande, Dr. H. Bruce Miles, Dr. Paul Sheehy, Jr., and Dr. James Brookins, II.

The city has welcomed others such as Dr. Will Harris, Dr. Emile Commedore, and many others.

***Look for full Black History Section in Friday’s Sentinel***