DeNorval Unthank facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Dr.
DeNorval Unthank
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| Born | December 14, 1899 Allentown, Pennsylvania, United States
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| Died | September 20, 1977 (aged 77) |
| Occupation | Physician |
| Years active | 1926–1970 |
| Spouse(s) | Thelma Shipman |
| Children | 5 |
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DeNorval Unthank (born December 14, 1899 – died September 20, 1977) was an important American doctor and a champion for civil rights in Portland, Oregon. He was one of the first Black doctors in Oregon. For a long time in the 1930s, he was the only Black doctor working in Portland. Dr. Unthank helped start the Urban League of Portland in 1945. He also became the first Black member of the City Club of Portland in 1943. His work helped make Portland a more fair place for everyone.
Contents
Biography
Early Life and Education
DeNorval Unthank was born in 1899 in Allentown, Pennsylvania. He had seven brothers and sisters. When he was nine years old, his mother passed away. His father could not take care of him, so DeNorval went to live with his aunt and uncle in Kansas City.
Unthank attended the University of Michigan for a time. He then transferred to the University of Kansas, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree. Later, he went to Howard University and received his medical degree in 1926.
Moving to Portland
In 1929, Dr. Unthank moved to Portland, Oregon. He settled in the Westmoreland neighborhood, which was mostly white at the time. His family faced challenges when they moved into this new neighborhood. They received threatening phone calls and rocks were thrown through their windows. Because of this, they had to move four times before they found a stable home.
During the 1930s, Dr. Unthank was the only Black doctor working in Portland. He worked hard to help people and make a difference.
Civil Rights Work
Dr. Unthank was not just a doctor; he was also a strong voice for civil rights.
- In 1943, he became the first Black member of the City Club of Portland. This group discusses important community issues.
- In 1945, he helped create the Urban League of Portland. This organization works to help African Americans achieve equality and improve their lives.
- He also served as the president of the Portland chapter of the NAACP. The NAACP is a well-known organization that fights for the rights of Black people.
In 1952, Dr. Unthank and his family moved to the Irvington neighborhood. His dedication and hard work were recognized by many.
- In 1958, he was named Oregon Doctor of the Year.
- Four years later, in 1962, he was named Citizen of the Year by the Portland Chapter of the National Conference of Christians and Jews.
Later Years
Dr. Unthank stopped practicing medicine in 1970. After that, he worked as a medical consultant for the Oregon Workmen's Compensation Board from 1970 to 1976. He passed away on September 20, 1977.
Personal Life
DeNorval Unthank and his wife, Thelma Shipman, had five children. Their names were DeNorval Jr. (1929–2000), Thomas, James (1938–2018), Thelma (1940–2009), and Lesley.
Legacy
Dr. Unthank's contributions to Portland are still remembered today.
- DeNorval Unthank Park, located in the Boise neighborhood, was named in his honor in 1969. A special ceremony to celebrate the park was held again in 2011.
- Other places named after him include Unthank Plaza, which is a living facility for seniors.
- The DeNorval Unthank Health Clinic, also in the Boise neighborhood, helps people get medical care.
These places serve as a lasting reminder of Dr. Unthank's important work as a doctor and a civil rights leader in Portland.
