03/08/2026
Just down the street from St. Lukeās Free Medical Clinic, a woman named Nina Littlejohn helped change the course of healthcare in Spartanburg.
In 1913, Nina Littlejohn and her husband Worth founded the John-Nina Hospital on North Dean Street, just down the road from where St. Lukeās Free Medical Clinic stands today. During a time when segregation prevented African Americans from receiving proper medical care, Nina established a licensed hospital dedicated to serving Black patients in our community.
The hospital operated from 1913 to 1932, providing medical care, surgery, and recovery space for patients who otherwise had very limited access to treatment. To better lead and manage the hospital, Nina even took business classes at Claflin College.
Her work helped ensure that African Americans in Spartanburg could receive medical care during a time when it was often denied.
Today we honor Nina Littlejohnās legacy as a trailblazer, entrepreneur, and healthcare advocate who worked to improve the health and dignity of her community.
Happy International Womenās Day as we celebrate the women who continue to lead, serve, and care for our communities. š