In celebration of Black History Month, each week in February, Cypress Hills Cemetery will be highlighting the achievements of various African American notables.
James McCune Smith
Born: April 18, 1813 Died: November 17, 1865
Renowned for his leadership as an abolitionist, James McCune Smith also had the extraordinary distinction of being the first African American to hold a medical degree, as well as the first to run a pharmacy in the United States. While practicing as a doctor for over 20 years, he contributed greatly to the medical community with numerous essays and articles. This week we recognize James McCune Smith for his incredible accomplishments.
