Alexander Darnes

Alexander Darnes

Alexander Darnes (c. 1840 – February 11, 1894) was one of the first African-American physicians in Florida. He was born into slavery in St. Augustine, Florida, and later became a prominent figure in the medical community.

Early Life

Alexander Darnes was born around 1840 in St. Augustine, Florida. He was enslaved by the Smith family, who were prominent residents of the city. During his early years, Darnes served as a personal servant to Edmund Kirby Smith, who would later become a Confederate general during the American Civil War.

Civil War and Emancipation

During the American Civil War, Darnes accompanied Edmund Kirby Smith, serving as his valet. After the war, Darnes was emancipated and pursued an education, which was a significant achievement given the limited opportunities available to African Americans during that period.

Education and Medical Career

After gaining his freedom, Darnes attended Lincoln University (Pennsylvania), a historically black university. He later graduated from Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C., one of the first medical schools in the United States to admit African-American students.

Upon completing his medical education, Darnes returned to Florida and established a medical practice in Jacksonville, Florida. He became one of the first African-American physicians in the state and was highly respected in the community for his medical expertise and dedication to his patients.

Legacy

Alexander Darnes is remembered as a pioneering African-American physician who overcame the challenges of his time to make significant contributions to the medical field. His life and career are a testament to the resilience and determination of African Americans during the post-Civil War era.

In 2004, a statue of Darnes was erected in St. Augustine, Florida, commemorating his contributions to the community and his role in the history of African-American physicians in the United States.

See Also

• African-American history
• History of medicine in the United States
• List of African-American firsts