William Demosthenes Crum facts for kids

William Demosthenes Crum (February 9, 1859 – December 7, 1912) was an important African American doctor and diplomat. He made a big difference in both medicine and government service during his lifetime.

William D. Crum's Life Story

Early Life and Education

William D. Crum was born on February 9, 1859. His birthplace was Charleston, in South Carolina. He was born a free person of color. This meant he was not enslaved, even though many African Americans were at that time. He was the youngest of seven children. His father, Darius Crum, was a German American. His mother, Charlotte C. Crum, was also a free woman of color.

William grew up on his father's large farm. This farm had many workers, some of whom were enslaved people. This was before the Civil War ended slavery in the United States. In 1875, William graduated at the top of his class. He attended the Avery Normal Institute. He then went on to study medicine. In 1881, he earned his medical degree from Howard University. After finishing his studies, he returned to Charleston. He began working at the McClennan Hospital.

A Doctor and Community Leader

William Crum became a well-respected doctor. He was known for his skill in diagnosing illnesses. He also spent time studying tuberculosis, a serious lung disease. While working as a doctor, William met Ellen Craft. They later married. Ellen's parents, William and Ellen Craft, were famous fugitive slaves and abolitionists. Ellen Crum herself helped start the National Federation of Afro-American Women.

Besides his medical work, Crum became very active in politics. He was the chairman of the county Republican Party for over 20 years. He became friends with many important African Americans. These included Booker T. Washington, a famous educator. Through his hard work, Crum became quite wealthy. He also attended every Republican National Conference from 1884 to 1904. These conferences are where political parties choose their candidates for president.

Serving His Country

In 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt chose William Crum for an important job. He nominated Crum to be the collector of customs for the port of Charleston. This was a very significant role. It was meant to show that there was "a door of hope" for African Americans in the South. Many local people opposed his appointment. Despite this, Crum was officially appointed in 1903. He was the first African American to hold this position. He served in this role until 1909. The strong opposition he faced actually made him famous across the country.

When President Roosevelt left office, William Howard Taft became president. Taft thought Crum's position in Charleston was causing political problems. Instead of re-appointing Crum as customs collector, President Taft offered him a new role. He offered Crum the job of Consul-General to Liberia.

Crum accepted this new challenge. He served as the Minister Resident of the United States to Liberia from 1910 to 1912. Liberia is a country in West Africa. During his time there, he tried to help Liberia. He worked to solve border disputes and make its economy stronger. However, his efforts had limited impact.

Later Life and Legacy

While serving in Liberia, William Crum became very ill. He caught blackwater fever, which is a severe form of malaria. Because of his illness, he had to resign from his post on September 17, 1912. He returned to the United States. Sadly, William Crum never recovered. He passed away on December 7, 1912, in Charleston, South Carolina. He was buried there. William D. Crum is remembered as a pioneering African American doctor and diplomat. He broke barriers and served his community and country with dedication.