Johns Hopkins

Originally Aired: May 26, 1941 Cavalcade of America #228, "Johns Hopkins," tells the story of the man whose generosity created one of America's greatest universities and hospitals. The drama opens in 1807 when young Johns Hopkins faces a life-changing decision. After his Quaker father Samuel frees the family's slaves and requires his sons to work the plantation, seventeen-year-old Johns must choose between field labor and leaving his beloved studies to become a merchant. Money, not choice, dictates his future, and Johns reluctantly joins his Uncle Gerard's wholesale grocery business in Baltimore, vowing to become wealthy enough to one day build a school for those who cannot afford education. As Johns grows into a successful businessman under his uncle's tutelage, he develops both a head for commerce and a romance with his spirited cousin Elizabeth. The episode follows his journey from idealistic young scholar to shrewd merchant, all while carrying the dream born from his youthful disappointment. Through Johns' story, the drama explores how personal sorrow and unfulfilled dreams can ultimately transform into lasting contributions to human welfare.