After two years, he discerned what career path he should pursue. An older brother was a successful practicing medical physician in nearby Roanoke, Virginia. Another older brother, Archer, was a practicing pharmacist with whom he also consulted. Together they decided to become physicians and proceeded to enroll at Northwestern University in Chicago where they received their Bachelor of Science degrees. However, they were refused entry into medical school at Northwestern University because of quota of African-American students was filled.  

 

Not giving up, the two attended and graduated from Meherry School of Medicine in Tennessee. Robert went to Grand Rapids to practice and received privileges at Butterworth and Saint Mary’s Hospital in the mid-thirties. Dr. Claytor was a highly respected citizen and pillar of the Grand Rapids community, he was on the Board of Directors of the Community Chest (now know n as the United Way); was one of the founders of the Grand Rapids Urban League and became its second president; and was chosen for the “Family Physician of the Year” award by the Michigan Association of Family Practitioners. 

 

Dr. Eugene Browning

Dr. Browning began his medical career practice in Grand Rapids in 1905. His education background included the Detroit Medical College of Medicine, the University of Chicago and the University of Vienna. His commitment to the community and its health needs established Dr. Browning as a pioneer of the present day well-baby clinics. He operated a weekly well-baby clinic at First Community A.M.E. Church. His services were given regardless of ability to pay.

 

From St. Mary's Health Clinic