Mary Edwards Walker

Mary Edwards Walker

Mary Edwards Walker (November 26, 1832 – February 21, 1919) was an American abolitionist, prohibitionist, prisoner of war, and surgeon. She is most notably recognized as the only woman to have received the Medal of Honor, the United States' highest military decoration. Walker was a pioneering figure in the medical field, as well as a staunch advocate for women's rights, particularly in the areas of dress reform and suffrage.

Early Life and Education

Mary Edwards Walker was born in Oswego, New York, to Alvah and Vesta Walker, who were progressive thinkers and advocates for equal rights. They encouraged their daughter to pursue an education, which was uncommon for women at the time. Walker graduated with a degree in medicine from Syracuse Medical College in 1855, becoming one of the first female doctors in the United States.

Career

After graduation, Walker started a medical practice in Columbus, Ohio. However, her practice did not thrive, as the public was not accustomed to female physicians. With the outbreak of the American Civil War, Walker volunteered for the Union Army as a surgeon. Initially, she served as a nurse, as the Army refused to recognize her as a doctor. Undeterred, Walker worked near the front lines, providing medical care to soldiers and civilians alike. In 1863, she was finally appointed as a contract acting assistant surgeon, becoming the first female surgeon in the U.S. Army. Walker was captured by Confederate forces in 1864 and imprisoned for four months before being exchanged for a Confederate officer. After the war, she was awarded the Medal of Honor for her service, an honor she proudly wore for the rest of her life.

Activism

Beyond her medical career, Walker was deeply involved in the fight for women's rights. She was particularly vocal about dress reform, advocating for women to wear more practical clothing instead of the restrictive dresses of the era. Walker herself often wore trousers and a top hat, which was considered scandalous at the time. She also campaigned for women's suffrage, participating in lectures and events across the country.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1917, the U.S. government reviewed and revoked numerous Medal of Honor awards, including Walker's. However, she refused to return the medal and continued to wear it until her death in 1919. In 1977, President Jimmy Carter posthumously reinstated her Medal of Honor, recognizing her significant contributions to the country and the military. Mary Edwards Walker remains a symbol of perseverance and dedication in the face of adversity. Her work as a surgeon and activist paved the way for future generations of women in medicine and public service.

See Also

• Women in medicine
• American Civil War
• Medal of Honor