Shaw Medical School

great raleigh trolley shaw university

Did you know the first four-year medical school was right here in Raleigh? Shaw University made history as the first institution in the entire country to offer a four-year program for med students. Ahead of the curve, Shaw’s program was eventually picked up by other universities—which at the time were segregated. Classes began at Leonard Hall in 1882. Over the next 36 years, the Medical School graduated almost 400 physicians, including the Aaron Moore, the first black doctor in Durham. A fire destroyed the roof in 1986, rendering the building unusable; however, a grant in 2000 allowed the historic building to be restored. Over 137 years old, this iconic building can still be seen on Shaw’s campus. Here is a modern photo compared with a photo from the 1800’s.

If you love Hidden History that goes way beyond what you learn in school or books, check out our Hidden History tour this Friday, September 17th at 6pm.
Tickets and info ——> https://www.greatraleightrolley.com/hiddenhistory