A pioneer in Wilmington’s Health care: Dr. Daniel Carter Roane
"He was a tremendous man who paved many paths for the advancement of colored people in this region."
NEW HANOVER COUNTY (WWAY)–Black History Month is a time to recognize people who broke barriers and their achievements. So, we’re taking a look at a man who broke barriers in the field of health care.
1938 was the year medicine changed for New Hanover County’s Black community. It’s thanks to Dr. Daniel Carter Roane. We caught up with his grandsons to share Roane’s achievements Brian and Daniel Dickey.
“He was a tremendous man who paved many paths for the advancement of colored people in this region,” says Daniel Dickey
Dr. Roane, a pioneer in medicine is considered the first Black physician to practice at Community Hospital. He was an OB/GYN.
“This country does a really good job at creating a narrative around being less than around Black men- how we’re not educated- we’re not those things,” Daniel shared. “To be able to see your grandfather’s name as your doctor who brought you into the world on your birth certificate, White or Black, most people don’t have that story to tell.”
Community Hospital opened at 415 N Seventh St. It was the first hospital in Wilmington dedicated to providing health care for Black people. A construction business now occupies the site. However, a new location opened its doors on 11th St but was torn down in the past.
“It’s a reminder that we don’t come from simple people. We don’t come from people who didn’t achieve or climb higher than expectations,” Daniel said.
But, this came at a time when racial segregation was deeply ingrained in society, including health care. It wasn’t until 1958 when New Hanover County passed a bond to build a new hospital that would serve all patients, which Roane helped push.
“I think history in general is really important and I think that’s why you see the people in power are doing so much work to keep the history of people of color out. Every generation, we’re supposed to climb higher and further than the last generation,” Daniel said.
At the intersection of Sixth and Walnut Streets is where you can find Dr. Roane’s medical office. However, over the years, the medical office turned into a historical landmark. It was then bought and remodeled into a residence today.
“We remember cutting that grass, going in and out of those sheds. His house was also on Walnut Street, but we were kids. Our dad was more so having conversations,” Daniel explained.
Dr. Roane was not just a doctor but a symbol of hope for African Americans– being a trusted healer who made a difference in so many lives.
Roane is recognized on a historical timeline with other pioneer Black doctors. If you would like to check it out, you’ll find a display in the front concourse of Novant Health.
However, the success doesn’t stop there. Brian owns Sweet D’s Cuisine on S. 17th St. and Daniel owns an award-winning public relations and branding company in Atlanta, Georgia.
