Dr. Emory Hestus Holmes was an African-American physician and civil rights activist. He was born on September 8, 1873, in Washington County, Texas, and died on October 3, 1958, in Houston, Texas.
Dr. Holmes played a crucial role in providing medical services to the African-American community during a time of racial segregation and limited access to healthcare. He attended Wiley College and later received his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1903. After completing his education, he returned to Texas and established a successful medical practice in Houston.
As a physician, Dr. Holmes faced many challenges due to the racial discrimination prevalent at the time. However, he persisted in his efforts to provide quality medical care to African Americans, often offering services on a sliding fee scale or even providing free treatment to those who could not afford it.
In addition to his medical practice, Dr. Holmes was actively involved in civil rights advocacy. He co-founded the Houston Negro Hospital, which later became Riverside General Hospital, to address the healthcare needs of the African-American community. He also played a role in organizing the Houston branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and served as its first president.
Dr. Emory Hestus Holmes dedicated his life to improving healthcare access for African Americans and fighting for civil rights. His contributions to medicine and advocacy continue to inspire others to this day.