Dr. William S. Forwood (1862–1952)
Dr. William S. Forwood was born on February 19, 1862, in Oldham County, Kentucky. He was educated in Kentucky’s common schools and later graduated from Georgetown College near Lexington with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He pursued medical studies under Dr. C. W. Kelley in Louisville and at Louisville Medical College, where he graduated in 1887. He continued post-graduate work at the Kentucky School of Medicine.
Dr. Forwood began his medical career in Pewee Valley, Kentucky, and later moved to Henderson in 1899, where he practiced medicine and surgery for over five decades. His long and distinguished career included service as a surgeon for the Louisville & Nashville Railroad, a U.S. government pension examiner, and a medical examiner for the Metropolitan Insurance Company.
Deeply involved in civic and religious life, Dr. Forwood served as Henderson’s city physician and was active in public health and community development. He was also a charter member and deacon of the First Baptist Church of Henderson and participated in the Masonic order. In 1929, he ran for city commissioner, emphasizing his commitment to Henderson’s growth and welfare.
He and his wife, Nellie Mathews Forwood (1859–1939), were beloved members of the community and active in church affairs. Dr. Forwood passed away on December 5, 1952, at his home at 526 First Street in Henderson at the age of 90. He was laid to rest in Fernwood Cemetery in Henderson, Kentucky.
