History
BRBH was established in 1969 under the Code of Virginia as part of a statewide system of community service boards.
Since then, we have grown to include 5 different locations, 400+ employees, and many helpful programs. We serve thousands of individuals annually.
Dr. Isaac D. Burrell
Dr. Isaac David Burrell was a doctor during a time when Black patients were often denied proper medical care. During his career, he worked hard to make sure Black patients could get care in Roanoke, VA. Our Burrell Center location is run out of the former Burrell Memorial Hospital, founded by Dr. Burrell.
In 1914 at age 49, Dr. Burrell became deathly ill. Because of medical segregation, he had to travel 240 miles to Washington, D.C. for surgery while lying in the train’s baggage car. Sadly, he died after the operation.
Dr. Burrell’s death showed an urgent need for a hospital for Black patients in Roanoke. In 1915, Burrell Memorial Hospital opened in his memory, serving the Black community during segregation.
Burrell Memorial Hospital was the first Black hospital in Virginia to be accredited by the American College of Surgeons.
Burrell Day
BRBH honors Dr. Burrell’s legacy by observing Burrell Day each year on his birthday, March 10th. Burrell Day was declared by the city of Roanoke in 2019.
Burrell Day is a community event where all are welcome to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Burrell. We host this event at the Burrell Center on 611 McDowell Avenue, NW.