Dr. Matilda Evans House, Columbia

The Dr. Matilda Evans House, built around 1915, stands as a testament to the remarkable achievements of Dr. Matilda A. Evans, a pioneering physician and public health advocate in Columbia, South Carolina. Dr. Evans, who resided in this home from 1928 until her death in 1935, holds the distinction of being the first licensed female physician in South Carolina, irrespective of race. Her career was marked by numerous groundbreaking accomplishments, including the ownership and operation of Columbia’s first black hospital.

Dr. Evans made significant contributions to healthcare with the establishment of two hospitals in Columbia: Taylor Lane Hospital, which operated from 1901 to 1911, and St. Luke’s Hospital and Evans’ Sanitorium, from 1914 to 1918. These institutions not only provided much-needed medical care to the African American community but also served as training grounds for black nurses and physicians at a time when such opportunities were scarce. Her hospitals were vital in improving healthcare access and quality for black residents in Columbia.

Beyond her medical practice, Dr. Evans was a fervent advocate for public health and community welfare. She operated Lindenwood Park, the only public recreational facility for black children in the area, offering a safe and enjoyable space for youth to gather and play. Recognizing the broader needs of her community, she also founded the Negro Health Association of South Carolina, an organization dedicated to improving health outcomes and education for African Americans.

In 1930, Dr. Evans further cemented her legacy by establishing Columbia's first free health clinic for African American children. This clinic was a groundbreaking initiative that saw 3,800 patients in its first three months alone, underscoring the dire need for accessible healthcare services.