NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Nashville has a new historical marker honoring Dr. Robert F. Boyd, an 1882 graduate of Meharry Medical College. The new marker was unveiled Tuesday on the college’s campus along Dr. D.B. Todd Jr. Boulevard. Boyd was born enslaved in Giles County, and went on to earn multiple degrees, including two from Meharry Medical College. Later in his career, Boyd returned to Meharry as a professor.
In 1892, he became the first African American nominated to run for mayor of Nashville, the marker says. In 1900, he went on to found Mercy Hospital on South Cherry Street for Meharry students to practice medicine.
Meharry’s executive library director Sandra Parham told News 2 it’s important for students to appreciate the school’s history.
“We don’t just take for granted because you chose to come to Meharry, that you know about the real history of Meharry. Most students come for all different reasons, but coming for the sense of belonging, coming knowing something about your roots means a lot to us and eventually means a lot to the students also,” Parham said.
Boyd died in 1912, and his funeral was held at the Ryman Auditorium. At the time of his death he was considered one of the leading Black physicians in the country.
The marker is located in front of Hulda Margaret Lyttle Hall, 1005 Dr. D.B. Todd Jr. Boulevard.
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Published by: WKRN on October 22, 2025. Watch the full story here.