May Cravath Wharton

American physician and educator

May Cravath Wharton

May Cravath Wharton (1873–1959) was an American physician, educator, and pioneer in rural healthcare. She is best known for her work in establishing medical facilities and educational programs in the Appalachian region of Tennessee.

Early life and education

May Cravath was born in 1873 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was the daughter of a prominent family, which valued education and public service. Her early education was completed in local schools, and she later attended Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, where she developed an interest in medicine and public health.

After completing her undergraduate studies, Cravath pursued a medical degree at the University of Michigan Medical School, graduating in 1905. She was one of the few women in her class, reflecting the broader societal challenges women faced in entering the medical profession at the time.

Career

Medical practice

After obtaining her medical degree, Dr. Wharton moved to Tennessee, where she began her medical practice. She was particularly drawn to the needs of rural communities, which often lacked access to basic healthcare services. Her work in these areas was groundbreaking, as she provided medical care to underserved populations, often traveling long distances to reach patients.

Cumberland Mountain School

In 1921, Dr. Wharton founded the Cumberland Mountain School in Crossville, Tennessee. The school was established to provide education and vocational training to young people in the region, many of whom had limited access to formal schooling. The curriculum included both academic subjects and practical skills, preparing students for a variety of careers.

Cumberland Medical Center

Dr. Wharton also played a crucial role in the establishment of the Cumberland Medical Center, which provided much-needed healthcare services to the local community. The center became a model for rural healthcare delivery, combining medical treatment with health education and preventive care.

Legacy

May Cravath Wharton's contributions to medicine and education have had a lasting impact on the communities she served. Her work in rural healthcare set a precedent for future initiatives aimed at improving access to medical services in underserved areas. The institutions she founded continue to serve the community, reflecting her enduring legacy.

Related pages

• Rural health
• Women in medicine
• Appalachian culture