Description
Algernon Brashear Jackson was a physician, surgeon, author, columnist and one of the founding fathers of the Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity. After earning his M.D. he became the first and only black surgeon at the Philadelphia Polyclinic Hospital, an institution run exclusively by white physicians. Jackson had clear ties to Brooker T. Washington through his participation in the National Negro Health Movement. In 1907, he co-founded the Mercy Hospital School for Nurses, where he was surgeon-in-chief for 15 years before becoming the superintendent. In 1911, Algernon Jackson originated the use of magnesium sulfate, which became an effective treatment for rheumatism.
Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity – founded 1904
The first Greek-letter fraternity founded by African American men was established in 1904 and named the Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity. In 1908 chapter representatives from Chicago, Baltimore and other cities met in Philadelphia and established the Grand Boulé to provide central leadership. The fraternity believed in the absolute equality of standing of its members, therefore anyone who was eligible to be a member was deemed qualified for leadership. Officers were henceforth selected by lot, a tradition that lasted until 1970. The fraternity was established so that black learned and professional men could have an organization not based on brains alone, but also congeniality, culture and good fellowship.
This Algernon Jackson history mug is part of our African American History series which includes many of the unique individuals who played an important part in molding America’s history.
The biographical History Mugs were created to teach and inspire individuals to learn about our diverse and interesting history. The biographies were researched and written by history enthusiast, Robert Compton. He colorized most of the historic photos and images used on the mugs, which were originally black and white or sepia tone. The images and biographies are imprinted on mugs at his studio in rural Vermont.
- Mugs are food and microwave safe.
- To preserve photographic quality we recommend hand washing.
- Mugs are usually shipped within 3-5 days.
