New Jersey History and Sites

Dr. James Still, known as the “Black Doctor of the Pines,” was a herbalist and homeopathic healer in the mid-nineteenth century.

James Still was born on April 9^th, 1812 in Indian Mills. He was born to former slaves, Levin and Charity Still, and was one of 18 children. Some of his siblings included famous abolitionist William Still, as well as Peter Still, who was known for buying his own freedom. As a child, James was born into poverty, and there were periods when his family didn’t have enough food or clothing to live comfortably. However, since he was young, he had the dream to be a doctor.

From the age of 8 or 9 into his late twenties, James worked as a laborer. He chopped wood, made charcoal, picked berries, and cleared trees. As James labored, his dreams of being a doctor seemed farther out of reach. In addition, as he got older, James realized he wasn’t aware of any “black doctors” and didn’t know how he would afford the education associated with becoming a doctor. James ended up signing a contract with Amos Wilkins where in exchange for working for him for about 3 years, James would receive about one month of schooling in winter for three years. Despite receiving only three months of formal education, he loved learning and worked hard. When his contract ended up with Mr. Wilkins, James took another laboring job and began saving up for medical school. Although, due to changes in life, James spent his saving on his new wife, child, and home. Ultimately, his first wife passed away, and James ended up remarrying shortly afterwards. At this point, James thought his dreams of becoming a doctor were past point of the possible.

On a trip to Philadelphia, Still purchase a book on medical botany, coming back a couple weeks later for a second book. The books gave insight into preparing and administering medicine as well as instruction for making pill powers, salves, and liniments. In 1843, James began distilling roots and herbs. Overtime, neighbors began approaching James to heal some of their ailments.  Then, one day, James agreed to help treat a sick man in exchange for some sassafras, which is when James began to take the prospect of healing more seriously. In the following years, Dr. Still began focusing solely on his medical practice.

Despite a little rocky financial start, James became one most well-known doctors and wealthiest men in Burlington County. James purchased land and built at house with a small office next door. Dr. Still lived in Burlington most of his life and helped many people in the community. Dr. Still’s home was town down in 1937. His medical office remained standing. In 2005, New Jersey purchased the Dr. Still’s property. The Dr. James Still Historic Site and Education Center was the first African-American site purchased by the State of New Jersey.

Resources

“Dr James Still Historic Site.” Medford Historical Society. Accessed on February 14, 2026. https://www.medfordhistory.org/dr-still-center

“Dr. James Still Historic Office Site and Education Center.” Designed by Samuel Still III. Accessed on February 14, 2026. http://www.drjamesstillcenter.org/

Still, James. Early Recollections and Life of Dr. James Still. United States: J.B. Lippincott & CO., 1877.