Emily Siedeberg

Emily Siedeberg

Emily Siedeberg-McKinnon (1873–1968) was a pioneering figure in New Zealand's medical history, being the first female medical graduate in the country and a significant advocate for women's health and children's welfare throughout her career.

Early Life and Education

Emily Siedeberg was born on 17 February 1873 in Clyde, Otago, New Zealand, to Franz David Siedeberg, a builder and later an architect, and his wife, Anna Thompson. Encouraged by her father, she pursued higher education—a rare path for women at the time. In 1891, she enrolled at the University of Otago, becoming its first female medical student. Despite facing considerable gender-based discrimination, Siedeberg persevered and graduated in 1896 with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB ChB).

Career

After graduation, Siedeberg undertook further studies and work experience in Europe, including in obstetrics and gynecology, before returning to New Zealand in 1898. She established her own medical practice in Dunedin, focusing on women's and children's health. Siedeberg was also appointed as the medical officer to the St. Helen's Hospital in Dunedin, the first maternity hospital in New Zealand to be staffed by women, serving from 1905 to 1938.

In addition to her medical practice, Siedeberg was actively involved in various social causes. She was a founding member of the New Zealand Society for the Protection of Women and Children and played a key role in the establishment of the Dunedin branch of the Plunket Society, which focused on infant welfare.

Advocacy and Later Life

Throughout her life, Siedeberg was a vocal advocate for women's rights, particularly in the field of medicine. She was instrumental in the formation of the New Zealand Medical Women's Association in 1921 and served as its first president. Siedeberg also advocated for the professional development of nurses and was involved in the establishment of the New Zealand Nurses' Association.

Emily Siedeberg married James Alexander McKinnon in 1928, and although she reduced her medical practice, she continued to be involved in health education and welfare work. She retired from medical practice in 1938 but remained active in community service until her death on 13 June 1968 in Dunedin.

Legacy

Emily Siedeberg-McKinnon's legacy is marked by her pioneering role in New Zealand's medical history and her tireless work in improving women's and children's health care. She paved the way for future generations of women in medicine and is remembered as a trailblazer who overcame significant barriers to achieve her goals.