History

The Bluff City Medical Society was founded in 1885 by a group of African-American physicians with Dr. Miles Lynk as its first President. Its original purpose was to serve as a vehicle for doctors to address issues that affected them individually and collectively. In 1889, the Legislature of the State of Tennessee passed a law requiring the registration of all practicing physicians. Ninety-two doctors registered. Five of those were African- Americans. Three of the five were graduates of Meharry Medical College. One other medical school, the University of West Tennessee also played an important role in producing African-American physicians. This was organized by Dr. Miles Lynk around 1900 in Jackson, TN the school later moved to Memphis in 1907. A number of small infirmaries and hospitals opened in Memphis in the early 1900s to serve the charity and private patient populations. Dr. Jacob C. Hairston opened the first of these facilities in his home. Other facilities included the Terrell-Patterson Infirmary, the Jane Terrell Baptist Hospital (later renamed the Terrell Memorial Hospital), the Collins Chapel Hospital, the Mercy Hospital and Royal Circle Hospital. During the 1930s and 1940s there were over 40 African-American doctors practicing medicine in Memphis. However, that number began to decline. In 1960 only about 12 African-American physicians remained to practice medicine in Memphis. The Bluff City Medical Society survived during the 1960s under the Presidency of Dr. Clara Brawner, the first female President. Meetings were held primarily at Dr. Brawners home. The small group of members maintained a strong commitment to patient care and community services. Dr. Brawner, Dr. C. O. Daugherty, and others were instrumental in starting the Memphis Health Center Clinic. The facility provided medical care for the surrounding communities and also provided employment for young physicians starting practice. The 1970s and 1980s ushered in a new era for the Society. About 15 were in practice in the mid-1970s and others began to arrive. The officers were Dr. Clara Brawner, President, Dr. Wheelock A. Bisson, Secretary and Dr. Edward Reed, Treasurer. These physicians served Bluff City Medical Society wee, each remaining in office for over 10 years. In 2004, the BCMS was chosen as the National Medical Association Chapter of the Year in recognition of its outstanding programming, community involvement, and physician recruitment. Today, the number of African American physicians in the Memphis area number well over 250.

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