Known to his patients as “The Black Doctor of the Pines,” Dr. James Still became a wealthy and accomplished herbalist and homeopathic healer in the mid-1800s. Still was born to Levin and Charity Still, two former slaves from the Pine Barrens, on April 9, 1812 in Burlington County.
He came from a poor family, and although he did attend school occasionally, he largely had to rely on himself to gain the knowledge and education he needed to succeed. When Stills was a child, a physician came to the Pine Barrens to vaccinate him and his siblings, launching what would be a tremendous life of medical healing and triumph.
Early Studies
Still worked for three years as a servant, while thoroughly studying medicine and botany on the side. He even furthered his medical knowledge from the Native Americans of the area. Still didn’t have the means to attend medical school, but continued to persevere and study diligently before going on to become one of history’s most respectable doctors.
Eventually, his successful medical career began to flourish; he created a “cough balm” from plants and herbs on his farm. Not long after he became a celebrity in the area, maintaining a strong practice despite never charging for his services.
By the age of 65, Still published his autobiography, Early Recollections and Life of Dr. James Still. In it, he chronicled the details and memories of his remarkable life. Unfortunately, only five short years later Still suffered his second stroke and died in his New Jersey home.
Throughout his lifetime, James Still battled countless barriers and constraints, yet ultimately came out a success. He faced racial and financial troubles at every turn, but with hard work and dedication, Still became one of the most influential individuals in New Jersey’s history.
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