The Mississippi Department of Archives and History holds many photographs of Black public health nurses and midwives from this era, but many of the individuals were unfortunately not identified by name in archival records.
Delivered babies in patients' homes.
Provided prenatal and postpartum care.
Traveled throughout their communities carrying medical kits.
Educated families about infant care, sanitation, and nutrition.
Served as trusted healthcare providers during the Jim Crow era, especially in rural Black communities where physicians were scarce.
