The state Senate last week unanimously approved a plan by Senator Bob Mensch (R-24) to designate the Dr. Frank Erdman Boston Memorial Highway in the Borough of Lansdale.
“The life and accomplishments of Dr. Boston are a testament to what materializes from the best qualities in a human being,” Mensch said. “His selflessness, respect for life, dedication to his neighbors and unwavering commitment to do good serve as an inspiration for all and are the reasons we should be celebrating his legacy for generations to come.”
Senate bill 847 would designate state Route 2004, also known as North Broad Street as the “Dr. Frank Erdman Boston Memorial Highway.”
Last year, the Senate passed Senate Resolution 360 to honor Dr. Boston. The roadway designation builds on Senator Mensch’s efforts to immortalize Dr. Boston and all he has done for the community.
Dr. Boston was born March 10, 1891, in Philadelphia and later attended Lincoln University, originally established as The Ashmun Institute, the nation's first degree granting Historically Black College and University. He then attended the Medico-Chirurgical College, an outgrowth of the Medico-Chirurgical Society of Philadelphia which merged with the University of Pennsylvania Medical College and Jefferson Medical College.
Dr. Boston enlisted and was immediately given the rank of first lieutenant in the Army Medical Reserve Corps. During World War I, Dr. Boston served in France with the rank of captain and ended his military service as a major. After the war, Dr. Boston returned to work in Philadelphia and later settled in Lansdale where he opened the Elm Terrace Hospital, which was later renamed North Penn Hospital and subsequently became part of the Abington Jefferson Health Systems.
Dr. Boston also formed a First Aid Emergency Squad in Lansdale, eventually known as the Volunteer Medical Service Corps of Lansdale. He was a member of the Reserve Officers Association of Military Surgeons, the Montgomery County Medical Society and the American Medical Association.
Dr. Boston died February 8, 1960, at 69 years of age and was buried in Lansdale.
The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.
See also:
Mayoral Musings: The Lost History of Dr. Frank Boston
Editorial: Dr. Frank Boston A Key Figure in Local Black History
Virtual Panel Discussion on Dr. Frank Boston to be Held on Thursday Night
Sen. Mensch’s Legislation for First-Time Homebuyers Savings Accounts Advances Out of Committee
Sen. Mensch Introduces 'Breast Cancer Checkoff' Legislation
