90+ years of making an impact on peoples lives.
In the heart of Union County during the early 20th century, Dr. Lawrence W. Long (1906–1985) emerged as a formidable force against the racial and economic adversities of his time. Born into a world where the shadow of segregation loomed large and the Great Depression threatened to deepen the chasm of inequality, Dr. Long's journey was sparked by a personal tragedy—the loss of his sister to typhoid fever, a stark testament to the inadequate healthcare available to the Black community. This pivotal moment galvanized Long's resolve to pursue medicine, aiming to dismantle the barriers to healthcare access for African Americans in his community.
After completing his undergraduate studies at Howard University and earning his medical degree from Meharry Medical College, Dr. Long returned to Union County in 1931, armed with a vision and an unshakeable commitment to service. By 1932, he was laying the groundwork for the Union Community Hospital, a beacon of hope amidst the despair of the Great Depression and the entrenched racism of the South. Despite facing daunting financial hurdles, including being denied loans by local banks, Dr. Long’s perseverance led to securing a modest $50 per month from Union County. His relentless pursuit of support finally paid off in 1934 when the Duke Endowment recognized his efforts, providing an annual grant that would ensure the hospital’s growth and sustainability.
Under Dr. Long’s stewardship, the Union Community Hospital flourished, expanding from an 8-bed facility to a 38-room institution complete with operating and treatment rooms, an obstetric ward, a laboratory, an X-ray unit, and nurses. This transformation was not just physical but symbolic, representing a fortress of dignity and equality in healthcare for the Black residents of Union County.
Beyond the walls of the hospital, Dr. Long championed continuing education for African American medical professionals, founding the Annual Clinics to keep local physicians and dentists abreast of medical advancements. Esteemed educators and practitioners, including Dr. Charles Drew, a pioneer in blood bank development, were among the luminaries sharing knowledge at these gatherings. This initiative not only enhanced the quality of care provided at Union Community Hospital but also fostered a community of learning and excellence in African American healthcare.
Dr. Long’s leadership extended beyond the hospital as he took on pivotal roles in professional organizations, notably serving as President of the Palmetto Medical Society and later as Executive Director for three decades. His contributions were recognized on a national scale in 1957 when he was named Doctor of the Year by the National Medical Association. Perhaps one of his most significant moments came in 1961 when, representing South Carolina’s Black physicians, Dr. Long attended the Conference of Black Physicians at the White House, hosted by President John F. Kennedy to discuss the Medicare program.
Dr. Lawrence W. Long’s legacy is a testament to the power of resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. His life’s work not only transformed healthcare in Union County but also set a precedent for future generations to challenge and overcome systemic barriers. In the face of adversity, Dr. Long’s enduring spirit and impactful achievements continue to inspire a vision of a more equitable world, proving that change is possible with determination and compassion.