She was born 193 years ago last Wednesday.
Mary Edwards Walker was born of abolitionist parents who started a school to ensure their girls were just as educated their boys. Mary became a doctor.
She married a medical school classmate, although at the wedding she did refuse to say “obey” in the vows. They opened a practice where townspeople wouldn’t go because a woman who wore pants couldn’t possibly heal anyone.
She went to Washington in 1861 to join Union efforts but was not permitted to serve as a medical officer because of the girl thing.
Tending to wounded Civil War soldiers (both sides) on the front lines gained her a reputation and acceptance. She became the first female U.S. Army surgeon.
She was also the first woman awarded the Medal of Honor in 1865 and is still the only woman to receive it. The government tried to get it back in 1916, but she kept it and was buried wearing it. Jimmy Carter reinstated her medal in 1977.
Happy belated and inspiring birthday, Dr. Walker.
Love, The Womens