James Still was perhaps the most gifted physician in South Jersey during the nineteenth century. He was also African American, the son of former slaves, who received no more than six months of traditional schooling, and was self taught in both medical knowledge and practice. Born in Washington Township, Burlington County, New Jersey - now Shamong - Dr. Still overcame poverty and racial animus to become one of the wealthiest men in South Jersey during his lifetime. This republication of his autobiography, self-published in 1877, is a stirring reminder of the power of self determination and faith.