“ Dr. Mary”
by Robert Buck, M2, Maggie Head, M3, & Morton Kasdan, MD
Introduction
Dr. Mary Edwards Walker was born in 1832, in Oswego, New York. Despite her humble beginnings, her life was full of great accomplishments in both medicine and social reform. She was unwavering in her resolve to advocate for justice for all. For over 70 years, she pursued the reform of medical sciences, education and societal change.
Her father, Alvah Walker, named the family homestead“ Bunker Hill,” an ironically fitting gesture that foreshadowed Mary’ s lifelong battles, in the operating room and in society. 3 Her father ensured she had early access to medical journals to supplement her education, which she received at the local one-room schoolhouse. She later attended a“ training school” and taught hygiene to fund her future medical education. 2 Walker completed her training in 1855, graduating from Syracuse Medical College as the only woman in a class of seven. Even more remarkable was her decision to pursue surgery: a rare, bold path. 2
While her professional accomplishments in medicine were significant, Dr. Walker’ s legacy extends beyond the clinical setting. She was a relentless advocate for social reform, particularly women’ s rights. Her passion for equality was not born of a singular turning point; rather, as Rev. George DeMass, the current Oswego historian, explains, her convictions were“ present from the very beginning.” DeMass adds,“ She didn’ t just break barriers, she erased them.” 1 Dr. Walker’ s advocacy and refusal to conform to the restrictive societal expectations of her
time secured for her a prominent position in American history. Her belief that“ women could do anything” guided her career. 2
In June 2024, her pioneering legacy was honored with her image on a U. S. quarter. The design depicts her with her hair down, a style she rarely wore. This nuanced statement symbolizes the right to express herself as a woman and a professional. A year earlier, in August 2023, the U. S. Army installation formerly known as Fort A. P. Hill was renamed in her honor. Unfortunately, in June 2025, it was announced that the installation would be retitled once again as“ A. P. Hill,” now recognizing three Union Medal of Honor recipients rather than its former namesake. U. S. Army leadership announced that a new facility on the installation would be dedicated in her honor, ensuring that her legacy continues to be recognized.
Contribution to Medicine
Dr. Walker’ s contributions to the medical field were as progressive in that time as her social activism. A pioneer in surgical hygiene, she embraced antiseptic practices long before they gained acceptance in the larger medical community. 2 At a time when amputation was seen as a necessary resource in both traditional and military medicine, Walker advocated for more conservative treatments. Her approach gave the patients choice in their care: a right she firmly believed belonged to each patient. 3 This principle is a foundational belief in the modern, patient-centered model of medical practice.
24 LOUISVILLE MEDICINE