1889
Emma Reynolds, a young African American woman aspiring to be a nurse, was denied admission to all nursing schools in Chicago due to racial discrimination. Her brother, Reverend Louis Reynolds, approached Dr. Daniel Hale Williams for assistance.
The Evolution of Provident Hospital
Provident Hospital in Chicago boasts a remarkable history that reflects the resilience and determination of its founders and the community it serves. From its origins in the late 19th century as an answer to racial discrimination in healthcare and medical training, through its numerous challenges and victories since, Provident Hospital has been a beacon of hope and a symbol of progress for the African American community. Its story is one of overcoming adversity, standing firm in the face of social injustices, and making significant contributions to healthcare, particularly in Chicago’s South Side community.
This timeline encapsulates the key milestones in Provident Hospital‘s history, showcasing its persistent efforts to provide quality healthcare for all, regardless of race or socioeconomic status.
1890
Unable to influence the existing schools, Dr. Williams, Rev. Reynolds, and a group of Black ministers, physicians, and businessmen began the process of establishing a nursing school for Black women and a hospital that would grant hospital privileges to Black physicians. Reverend Jenkins Jones secured a down payment from Armour Meat Packing Company for a building that would house the hospital.
1891
The Provident Hospital and Training School Association was legally formed with a mission to maintain a hospital and training school for nurses for the treatment of the sick poor. The association bought a three-story brick house at 29th and Dearborn, which served as the first Provident Hospital with 12 beds. Dr. Williams was appointed hospital chief-of-staff, and the training school for nurses opened. The first physician in surgical training was Dr. Austin Curtis, who became the first Black surgeon-in-chief at Freedmen’s Hospital in Washington, D.C.
1892
Emma Reynolds and six other women enrolled in the first nursing class. Provident served patients and physicians of all races, and the first physicians in surgical training started their instruction under Dr. Williams.
1894
Dr. Williams moved to Washington, D.C., to serve as surgeon-in-chief of Freedmen’s Hospital. Dr. George Cleveland Hall took over as medical director of Provident.
1896
A funding campaign allowed for the construction of a new hospital building at 36th and Dearborn. Abolitionist Frederick Douglass donated to the campaign.
1898
The hospital moved to the new 65-bed location at 36th Street.
1933
Provident formed an educational affiliation with the University of Chicago and purchased a new seven-story building at 426 East 51st Street, which provided more space for patient care, education, and administration. A four-story outpatient building was constructed and two apartment buildings at 50th and Vincennes were purchased to house student nurses.
Late
1940s
Provident formed an educational affiliation with the University of Chicago and purchased a new seven-story building at 426 East 51st Street, which provided more space for patient care, education, and administration. A four-story outpatient building was constructed and two apartment buildings at 50th and Vincennes were purchased to house student nurses.
1987
Another financial crisis led to the hospital declaring bankruptcy and subsequently closing in September 1987.
Early
1990s
Civil rights activist and influential newspaper publisher, John H. Sengstacke, and Cook County leaders were determined to revitalize Provident Hospital.
1991
The Cook County Board of Commissioners, interested in the hospital for a long time, acquired Provident Hospital. This coincided with Cook County Bureau of Health Services’ plan to improve services for residents living on the south side of Chicago.
1993
After substantial upgrades to the physical plant, the hospital reopened in August 1993 under the management of the Cook County Bureau of Health Services.
1994
Provident’s traditional role in medical education was restored through an educational affiliation with Loyola University’s Stritch School of Medicine.
2023
Provident Hospital continues to serve the health needs of the community,
focusing on a variety of health outreach efforts.
For more than a century, Provident Hospital has served the residents the South Side of Chicago, providing accessible health care. As we celebrate 30 years at our current location, we want to hear from you! Memories and photos from staff and patients can be submitted to anniversary@cookcountyhhs.org for our website and social media pages.
By submitting your photos and memories along with you name, you consent that they may be used on our website and social media. You may revoke your consent by sending a message to anniversary@cookcountyhhs.org.
Submission of stories and photos is voluntary and no compensation will be provided.
Photo citation:
Chicago Defender Charities
Chicago Public Library
The Provident Foundation
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