Due to popular demand, you may visit the Dr. Springs Exhibit through Saturday, March 2, 2024, during regular library hours.

On Friday, February 23, 2024, at 2:00 pm, we hosted speakers Carla Coppi and Kevin Hostetler as they presented the “Remarkable Life of Dr. Andrew Springs.” Our history room librarian, Lisa Carnaghi created a wonderful exhibit featuring Dr. Springs’ life. We will keep this exhibit open, so those who could not attend the event may visit the exhibit.

Andrew Springs was born on May 22, 1869, in Charlotte, N.C. He graduated from Fisk University and the National Medical School in Chicago in 1907. He then establish a practice in Dewmaine, Illinois.

Dr. Springs became a community leader in southern Illinois. He set up a medical clinic and small hospital. He also offered classes on nutrition, hygiene and mine safety. Dr. Springs also organized one of the first African American Boy Scout troops in the country.

In 1923, Dr. Springs was awarded a gold medal by the Holmes National Bureau of Mine Safety, for saving the lives of dozens of miners after an underground explosion at Royalton. He also received a papal award for his many humanitarian accomplishments. Dr. Springs practiced medicine until he died in 1944.

The event is brought to you by the Herrin History Room and is free and open to the public.