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Frank Jeremiah Armstrong
Frank Jeremiah Armstrong.jpg
Armstrong as photographed by Cornell College
Born c. 1877
Died (aged 69)
Alma mater
  • Cornell College (BA)
  • College of Physicians and Surgeons of Chicago (MD)
Occupation
  • Assistant
  • physician
Known for Being the first African American to graduate from Cornell College

Frank Jeremiah Armstrong (born around 1877 – died November 2, 1946) was an American doctor. He made history as the first African American to graduate from Cornell College. He also worked as an assistant for the famous leader Booker T. Washington. Later, he became a respected physician.

Life and Career

Frank Armstrong graduated from Cornell College in 1900. He was the very first African American to achieve this. His friends at Cornell called him "Buck".

Early Life and Baseball

Frank started playing baseball when he was just 13 years old. He played for a team called the Marion Ravens. He continued playing baseball through the 1890s.

College Days

At Cornell College, Frank was part of the Adelphian Literary Society. He even served as the secretary for a spring term. In 1900, his final year, he was the captain of the college baseball team.

Working with Booker T. Washington

During his graduation ceremony, Frank Armstrong introduced Booker T. Washington as a speaker. Washington was so impressed that he hired Frank as his assistant.

Becoming a Doctor

Frank wanted to help people through medicine. He earned his medical degree in 1912. This was from the College of Physicians and Surgeons. This college later became part of the University of Illinois College of Medicine. After becoming a doctor, Frank Armstrong practiced medicine in Chicago. He was a member of several important medical groups. These included the Chicago Medical Society and the American Medical Association. He was also part of the National Medical Association.

Published Work

Frank's graduation speech was important enough to be published. It appeared in a 1905 book. The book was called A Record of the Celebration of the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Founding of the College. Cornell College itself published this book.

Later Life and Legacy

Frank Armstrong passed away on November 2, 1946. He was 69 years old. His life ended unexpectedly after an incident in his office. His body was found by a patient who called for help. He was survived by his wife, Jessie.

Honoring His Memory

In 2010, Cornell College honored Frank Armstrong. They named a student residential house and community center after him. This was a way to remember his important achievements.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Frank Jeremiah Armstrong para niños

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