John van Salee de Grasse

John V. DeGrasse, c. 1865 (Hayden album, Boston Athenaeum) - crop

John van Salee de Grasse (1825 – November 21, 1868) was an American physician and surgeon, notable for being the first African American to be formally educated as a doctor in the United States. He was also the first African American to be admitted to the Massachusetts Medical Society.

Early Life

John van Salee de Grasse was born in New York City in 1825. He was the son of George de Grasse, a Haitian immigrant, and Maria van Salee, who was of mixed Dutch and African descent. His family was well-educated and affluent, which allowed John to pursue higher education.

Education

De Grasse attended the Oneida Institute in Whitesboro, New York, and later studied at the Auburn Theological Seminary. He then went on to study medicine at the Bowdoin College Medical School in Brunswick, Maine, where he graduated in 1849. He furthered his medical education in Paris, France, before returning to the United States.

Medical Career

Upon his return, de Grasse established a medical practice in Boston, Massachusetts. In 1854, he became the first African American to be admitted to the Massachusetts Medical Society. He was also a member of the New England Freedmen's Aid Society, which provided medical care and education to freed slaves during and after the American Civil War.

Civil War Service

During the American Civil War, de Grasse served as a surgeon for the Union Army. He was assigned to the 35th United States Colored Infantry Regiment, where he provided medical care to African American soldiers. His service was highly regarded, and he was known for his dedication and skill.

Personal Life

John van Salee de Grasse married Cordelia L. Howard, and they had several children. He was an active member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church and was involved in various social and civic organizations in Boston.

Death and Legacy

John van Salee de Grasse died on November 21, 1868, in Boston, Massachusetts. He is remembered as a pioneering African American physician who broke racial barriers in the medical field. His contributions to medicine and his service during the Civil War are significant parts of his legacy.

Related Pages

• Massachusetts Medical Society
• New England Freedmen's Aid Society
• Union Army
• African Methodist Episcopal Church
• American Civil War
• Bowdoin College

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