Mary Esslemont

Scottish physician and medical educator

Mary Esslemont (3 July 1891 – 25 August 1984) was a prominent Scottish physician, medical educator, and advocate for women's health and rights. Her contributions to medicine and her community were significant during a time when women were still fighting for equality in many professional fields.

Early Life and Education

Mary Esslemont was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, into a family with a strong tradition of public service. Her father, George Esslemont, was a Liberal Member of Parliament, and her mother, Isabella Esslemont, was active in local politics and social causes. Mary was educated at the Aberdeen High School for Girls and later attended the University of Aberdeen, where she graduated with a degree in medicine in 1915.

Medical Career

After completing her medical degree, Esslemont worked in various hospitals in Scotland, gaining experience in different medical fields. She became particularly interested in women's health and was a strong advocate for improving healthcare services for women and children. Esslemont was known for her dedication to her patients and her commitment to providing high-quality medical care.

Mary Esslemont in her medical attire

In 1920, she returned to Aberdeen to join her father's medical practice, where she worked as a general practitioner. Her work in the community was highly regarded, and she became a well-respected figure in the medical community. Esslemont was also involved in medical education, teaching at the University of Aberdeen and mentoring many young medical students, particularly women.

Advocacy and Public Service

Mary Esslemont was a passionate advocate for women's rights and was actively involved in several organizations that promoted gender equality. She was a member of the Medical Women's Federation and served as its president from 1948 to 1950. Esslemont was also involved in the British Medical Association, where she worked to improve the status of women in the medical profession.

In addition to her work in medicine, Esslemont was active in local politics and community service. She served on the Aberdeen Town Council and was involved in various social welfare initiatives. Her contributions to public health and social justice were recognized with several honors, including being appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1955.

Legacy

Mary Esslemont's legacy is one of dedication to medicine, education, and social justice. She paved the way for future generations of women in medicine and was a role model for many. Her work in advocating for women's health and rights has had a lasting impact on the medical community and society as a whole.

Portrait of Mary Esslemont

Related Pages

• University of Aberdeen
• Medical Women's Federation
• British Medical Association
• Order of the British Empire