Was Dr Daniel Hale Williams the first black surgeon?

Dr. Daniel Hale Williams is often recognized as one of the first African American surgeons, notably for performing the first successful open-heart surgery in 1893. However, he may not be the absolute first black surgeon, as there were other African Americans who practiced surgery before him, such as Dr. James McCune Smith. Williams is celebrated for his pioneering contributions to surgery and for founding the first African American-owned hospital, showcasing significant advancements in medical care for the African American community.