Kingstree in Williamsburg County, South Carolina — The American South (South Atlantic)
Benevolent Societies Hospital
In March 1948, eight local Black benevolent societies founded a hospital for African Americans at this site. It was housed in a former residence that was remodeled and expanded to include rooms for treatment, exams, consultation and operating, as well as a dining room, kitchen, lobby and offices. Funds for the building and equipment were provided by local residents as well as others. (Continued on other side)
Reverse
(Continued from other side)
For many years, Benevolent Societies Hospital was the main provider of medical care for African Americans in Williamsburg County. Doctors and nurses often treated patients suffering from conditions related to poverty. The facility was brick-veneered and renovated in 1965. Additions were made to its south side in 1970-1971. The hospital closed several years later, after which this building became a funeral home.
Erected 2021 by District 11 OES and 11th Masonic District and the WeGOJA Foundation. (Marker Number 45 25.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Science & Medicine. A significant historical month for this entry is March 1948.
Location. 33° 40.072′ N, 79° 48.85′ W. Marker is in Kingstree, South Carolina, in Williamsburg County. Marker is at the intersection of East Main Street (South Carolina Route 261) and Harrell Street, on the right when traveling east on East Main Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1100 E Main St, Kingstree SC 29556, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. John Witherspoon (approx. 0.2 miles away); Captain Roger Gordon (approx. 0.2 miles away); "Let Us March on Ballot Boxes" (approx. ¼ mile away); Tomlinson School (approx. 0.4 miles away); Stephen A. Swails House (approx. 0.6 miles away); St. Alban’s Episcopal Church (approx. 0.9 miles away); Williamsburgh (approx. one mile away); Willamsburg County Veterans Monument (approx. one mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Kingstree.
Related marker. Click here for another marker that is related to this marker.
Credits. This page was last revised on May 31, 2023. It was originally submitted on March 29, 2023. This page has been viewed 91 times since then and 21 times this year. Photo 1. submitted on March 29, 2023. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. Photo of side 2. Wide shot of marker and its surroundings. • Can you help?