Mural Arts Philadelphia recently unveiled a new mural in Bella Vista that honors William Still and his daughter, Caroline Still Anderson, writes Kristin Hunt for PhillyVoice.
The former was an abolitionist activist who, through the Underground Railroad, helped nearly 1,000 enslaved individuals to freedom. Meanwhile, the latter became the first Black licensed physician in Philadelphia and among the first Black women doctors in the United States.
The recently-unveiled mural features the elder Still sitting at a desk with a pen in his hand as he records information. The younger Still is standing next to him with a stethoscope around her neck and her hand placed affectionately on her father’s shoulder.
The Still family built a strong legacy beyond just the two aforementioned members.
William Still’s son Robert George was the first Black Democratic candidate for Philadelphia City Council, another son William Wilberforce was an attorney, his daughter Frances Ellen was a teacher, and his wife Letitia was a dressmaker and boardinghouse manager.
The S. Delhi Street building in which the mural is located was once lived in by Letitia and their two eldest children.
While Still’s historical contributions were very important, they are often overlooked.
This is why artist Ernel Martinez wanted to create this mural.
Read more about William Still’s undeniable legacy and the new mural in his honor at PhillyVoice.
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