author
Matilda A. Evans
A pioneering South Carolina physician, she broke barriers in medicine while building clinics, a hospital, and public health programs for Black communities. Her life story is one of determination, care, and practical leadership.
1 Audiobook
About the author
Born in Aiken, South Carolina, in 1872, Matilda Arabella Evans studied at the Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania and returned home to practice medicine. In 1897, she became the first African American woman licensed to practice medicine in South Carolina.
Her work went far beyond a private practice. In Columbia, she opened services for patients who had little access to medical care, founded a hospital and nurse training program, and created the Columbia Clinic Association to help children and families receive treatment.
Evans was also a strong public health advocate. She promoted health education across the state, especially for African American communities, and took leadership roles in medical organizations while pushing for better care, prevention, and everyday health knowledge.