“C” is for Crum, William Demosthenes (1859-1912). Physician, civic leader, political activist. Crum, the son of a German American and a free woman of color grew up near Orangeburg. He earned his medical degree from Howard University. He opened a practice in Charleston. Crum was extensively involved in local and national Republican Party politics. In 1902 President Theodore Roosevelt nominated Crum as collector of customs for the port of Charleston. Widespread southern opposition to the nomination catapulted Crum into national prominence. Roosevelt kept Crum in his position through interim appointments until January 1905 when he was confirmed. Crum continued as collector through Roosevelt's second term but resigned after William Taft became president in 1909. In exchange for his cooperation, William Demosthenes Crum was appointed as minister to Liberia, a diplomatic post traditionally held by African Americans.
“C” is for Crum, William Demosthenes (1859-1912)
