"Jewels"of the Delta

March 4, 1908...the day that Theodor Roosevelt Mason Howard entered the physical realm. Born and raised in Kentucky, his work in a local hospital would be the catalyst for his desire to become a medical doctor. After earing two undergraduate degrees, one at Oakwood University (HBCU) in Huntsville, Alabama, the other at Union College of Lincoln, Nebraska, he would finish medical school at the College of Medical Evangelists in 1931.

Dr. Howard would work in several entry level positions, but his life changing experience came about in MOUND BAYOU, MISSISSIPPI. In 1942 he was appointed the chief surgeon at the hospital of Knights and Daughters of Tabor. He didn't limit his work to just the hospital....Mound Bayou would become the home of several of his business ventures, from restaurants to an insurance company to a zoo! Dr. Howard would employ the great Medgar Evers as a salesman for the insurance company and have a great impact on him and others during his tenure in Mound Bayou. 

Dr. Howard would become involved in politics after the brutal murder of 14 year-old Emmett Till. He spoke bravely about the injustice and the inhumane disregard for Black life. He was adamant that the murderers be held accountable and traveled the country speaking on the topic. It was in Montgomery, Alabama that Rosa Parks heard him and it awakened her warrior spirit. She said, "first mass meeting that we had in Montgomery." A few days later, she refused to give up her seat on a city bus. The spark of Dr. Howard created another spark in Rosa Parks that ignited the fire of Black folks throughout the country.

Dr. Howard did not just talk about the murder, he acted as well. Mound Bayou was a safe place and space for Mrs. Mamie Till and others during the trial. His home was heavily armed and guarded. He made sure the caravan arrived safely to the courthouse during the trial and back. He was not to be played with at all. 

Due to numerous death threats, Dr. Howard relocated to Chicago in 1957. I visited Mound Bayou and Taborian is still there as are other landmarks. I encourage all to visit, look around and ask what happened and why. At one point Mound Bayou was described at "The Jewel of the South." Many prominent Mississippians spent time there.

Dr. Howard is among those honored as a “point of light” at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. I’m excited to read and learn more about our grand ancestor.
Dr. T. R. M. Howard.....we salute you on your day!










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