Charles Frederick Williams was born at "Red House" in York, South Carolina on 6 August 1875 to LeRoy Russell Williams and Clementine Virginia Wallace Williams. He was educated in private schools and later attended the University of Maryland School of Medicine, from which he earned his medical degree. Williams began his medical practice in York, SC in 1901. Soon after, he was commissioned in the United States Army as acting assistant surgeon, saw service in the Philippines in 1902, and resigned in 1903. Williams became city physician of Columbia, SC in 1904. From 1908-1911, he served as South Carolina's first State Health Officer. After postgraduate work in Europe, Williams returned to Columbia to practice internal medicine. In 1915, Governor Manning appointed Williams as Superintendent of the South Carolina State Hospital, a position he held until his retirement in 1945. Williams' tenure at the State Hospital was marked by steady improvement in the care and treatment of the patients, and the modernization of the hospitals' facilities. Upon his retirement as superintendent, he became Director of Research for the institution. Williams was active in numerous professional organizations on the local and national level including: Columbia Medical Society (President, 1912); South Carolina Medical Association (President, 1923); South Carolina Hospital Association; American Psychiatric Association (President, 1934); National Committee for Mental Hygiene (Director); and South Carolina Society for Mental Hygiene (Director). Honors bestowed upon Williams include: Algernon Sydney Sullivan medal; honorary Doctor of Laws (University of South Carolina); and South Carolina American Legion plaque for distinguished service. Dr. Williams died at his country home near Columbia, SC on 3 June 1948. His wife, May Pressley Wilson Williams, preceded him in death by sixteen years. He was survived by three daughters.
From the description of Charles Frederick Williams Papers 1847-1991, bulk 1913-1948 (Medical University of South Carolina Library). WorldCat record id: 181372203
