Black History: Special Delivery!
The story of chiropractic care begins with an African American man named William “Harvey” Lillard. In 1895, Lillard, a janitor in Davenport, Iowa, became the first person to receive a chiropractic adjustment from the field’s founder,
D.D. Palmer (Palmer College of Chiropractic). After suffering from hearing loss for 17 years due to a spinal injury, Lillard was treated by Palmer, who believed that realigning the spine could restore the body’s natural ability to heal. Following his adjustment, Lillard claimed that his hearing was restored, marking the birth of chiropractic care. Despite Lillard’s historic role, racial barriers would soon exclude African Americans from chiropractic education and practice for many years to come.
In the early 1900s, chiropractic schools like the Palmer School of Chiropractic denied Black applicants access to education. This systemic racism limited opportunities for African Americans to enter the profession, despite the growing popularity of chiropractic care across the country. However, Black trailblazers rose to challenge these injustices by creating their own pathways to success, ensuring future generations had access to the profession.
The first African American chiropractor, Dr. Fred Rubel, earned his degree in 1913 from the National School of Chiropractic (National University of Health Sciences). A year later, he founded the Rubel College of Chiropractic, which was the first institution to admit students of all races, promoting diversity and inclusion in the field. His groundbreaking efforts inspired others to follow in his footsteps. Another key figure, Dr. Clarence Reaver, was initially denied access to chiropractic education due to racial discrimination. Determined to make a difference, Reaver established the Reaver School of Chiropractic in Dayton, Ohio (Dayton History). His school provided opportunities to countless Black students and became known for its integrated student body and dedication to equity.
In 1981, Dr. Bobby Westbrooks founded the American Black Chiropractic Association (ABCA) to provide support and representation for African American chiropractors and students (ABCA History). The ABCA has played a critical role in advocating for Black professionals and promoting chiropractic care in underserved communities, continuing the legacy of breaking down racial barriers in healthcare.
Black women also made crucial contributions to the chiropractic profession, breaking both racial and gender barriers. Dr. Louise (Bousen) Clague became the first African American woman chiropractor in the United States in 1926 (National University of Health Sciences). She graduated from the National School of Chiropractic and went on to have a distinguished career. Before becoming a chiropractor, Dr. Clague served as a field nurse in the U.S. Army and a physiotherapist in the United States Public Health Service for nearly 14 years.
Dr. Samantha P. Adams holds the distinction of being the first African American woman chiropractor certified by the Ohio State Medical Board in 1947 (American Chiropractic Association). At the age of 21, she achieved this milestone and subsequently practiced in Toledo, Ohio, where she was the sole African American chiropractor for 33 years. Her accomplishments represent a significant milestone in Ohio’s chiropractic history.
Systemic racism not only limited access to education for Black chiropractors but also restricted access to quality healthcare for African American communities. Despite these challenges, early Black chiropractors not only fought for their place in the profession but also worked tirelessly to advocate for the well-being of their communities.
Another installment of melanated mail has been delivered. Ponder, reflect, and pass it on.
Sources:
- Palmer College of Chiropractic – History of Chiropractic
Palmer College of Chiropractic - National University of Health Sciences – Celebrating Women’s History and Chiropractic Milestones
National University of Health Sciences - Dayton History – Historical Contributions of Dr. Clarence Reaver
Dayton History - American Black Chiropractic Association (ABCA) – History and Mission
ABCA History - American Chiropractic Association (ACA) – Black History Moments in Chiropractic
American Chiropractic Association
