Greenville City Council Approves Ownership Transfer of McClaren Property

Preserving black history in Greenville. Honoring a physician who cared for his community. On Monday, January 9, 2023, Greenville City Council gave final approval to transfer ownership of the parcel of land where the historic McClaren Medical Shelter resides, to the Urban League Of The Upstate.

Dr. Edward E. McClaren founded the clinic in 1949 to treat Black patients during segregation. “Dr. McClaren decided that we deserved better,” said longtime Greenville resident Yvonne Reeder, “So he took his own $15,000 and built the McClaren Medical Shelter beside his home. To put it next to his home shows he was an open person with his caring and dedication.”

The Urban League’s commitment to the principle of equal opportunity is in harmony with Dr. McClaren’s legacy of care. Dr. McClaren was City Councilwoman Lillian Brock Flemming’s pediatrician. “I used to love his lobby,” Flemming said. “I went there for everything and he always encouraged me and started off by asking, how are you doing in school.”

The former clinic is now located at the intersection of Academy and Wardlaw Streets. The agreement requires the shelter be preserved and the McClaren name be honored. The Urban League plans to turn the building into the McClaren Institute for Health and Quality of Life, a wellness center for the community.

Visit the City of Greenville website for more information.

Written by the City of Greenville.