Born: 1848
Died: 1919
Biography:
Caroline Still Anderson (November 1, 1848 – June 1 or 2, 1919) was an American physician, educator, and activist. She was a pioneering physician in the Philadelphia African-American community and one of the first Black women to become a physician in the United States.
Early life and education
Caroline Still Anderson was born on November 1, 1848, and was the oldest daughter of Letitia and William Still. Both of her parents were leaders in the American abolitionist movement. Her father, William Still, led the Philadelphia branch of the Underground Railroad, which began shortly after Caroline’s birth.
As a child, Caroline attended Mrs. Gordon’s Private School, The Friends’ Raspberry Alley School, and the Institute for Colored Youth (now Cheyney University of Pennsylvania). Despite the challenges faced by black people in 19th-century Philadelphia, Caroline’s privileged position within the prosperous black community allowed her to receive a quality education. Her father recognized the importance of education and encouraged Caroline to pursue it seriously.
Portrait of Anderson in 1868, while a student at Oberlin College
Caroline completed her primary and secondary education by the age of 15. In 1864, she matriculated at Oberlin College as the only black student in her class. At the age of 19, she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1868, becoming the youngest student in her graduating class. Her academic achievements were further recognized when she was elected the first black president of the Ladies’ Literary Society of Oberlin.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Caroline married her first husband, Edward A. Wiley, a fellow Oberlin alumnus and former slave, on December 28, 1869. The wedding was attended by many prominent members of the U.S. antislavery movement and featured a performance by Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield.
Career in Medicine
Two years after her husband’s sudden death, in 1875, Caroline enrolled at the Howard University College of Medicine. However, she transferred to the Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1876, where she graduated with a Doctor of Medicine degree in 1878. Among her classmates, she was one of only two black students in a class of 17.
Caroline Still Anderson faced numerous challenges during her medical studies. To support herself financially, she worked as a drawing and speech teacher. Despite these obstacles, she persevered and became one of the early black women to earn a medical degree.
Upon completing her medical education, Caroline returned to Philadelphia and worked as a teacher of elocution, drawing, and music until 1875. In 1878, she began her medical career with an internship at Boston’s New England Hospital for Women and Children.
Contributions and Activism
Caroline Still Anderson dedicated her medical practice to serving the African-American community in Philadelphia. As one of the pioneering black physicians in the city, she faced numerous challenges and discrimination. However, her commitment to providing healthcare to underserved populations remained unwavering.
In addition to her medical practice, Caroline was also actively involved in various social and political activities. She advocated for women’s rights and was a prominent member of organizations such as the Colored Women’s League and the Philadelphia Federation of Women’s Clubs.
Influence on Society and Women’s History
Caroline Still Anderson played a significant role in advancing the status of black women in medicine and society. As one of the first black women physicians in the United States, she broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of women of color in the medical field.
Caroline’s accomplishments and dedication to her community serve as an inspiration for women, particularly women of color, who continue to face adversity in pursuing their dreams and careers. Her involvement in social and political organizations also highlights the importance of actively participating in shaping society and advocating for equal rights.
Caroline Still Anderson’s legacy as an accomplished physician, educator, and activist continues to resonate, reminding us of the significant contributions made by black women throughout history.