Born: 1846 (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Died: 1922
Biography:
Rebecca J. Cole (March 16, 1846 – August 14, 1922) was an American physician, organization founder, and social reformer. She is best known for becoming the second African-American woman to earn a medical degree in the United States. Despite facing racial and gender-based barriers, Cole’s dedication and determination led her to make significant contributions in the field of medicine and advocacy for women’s rights.
Rebecca Cole was born on March 16, 1846, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was one of five children in her family. Cole’s sister, Sarah Elizabeth Cole, married Henry L. Phillips, a prominent African American Episcopal priest.
Cole received her education at the Institute for Colored Youth, where she attended high school. The curriculum at the Institute included subjects such as Latin, Greek, and mathematics, providing Cole with a strong academic foundation. In 1867, she graduated from the Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania, which was founded by Quaker abolitionists and temperance reformers in 1850. Cole’s thesis for her graduation was titled The Eye and Its Appendages.
During her time at the Woman’s Medical College, Cole faced significant challenges due to racial discrimination. In an article written by her fellow student, Odelia Blinn, it was revealed that crossing the ‘color line’ in Philadelphia almost hindered Cole’s studies and her aspirations for a medical career. Despite these obstacles, she persevered and became a trailblazer for future African American women in medicine.
After graduating, Cole interned at Elizabeth Blackwell’s New York Infirmary for Indigent Women and Children. Her responsibilities included teaching prenatal care and hygiene to women living in tenements. She then practiced medicine briefly in South Carolina before returning to Philadelphia.
In 1873, Cole partnered with Dr. Charlotte Abbey to open the Women’s Directory Center in Philadelphia. The center provided medical and legal services to disadvantaged women and children, highlighting Cole’s commitment to serving underprivileged communities.
In January 1899, Cole was appointed superintendent of a home run by the Association for the Relief of Destitute Colored Women and Children in Washington, D.C. Her appointment was praised in the association’s annual report, emphasizing her abilities, energy, experience, and tact. Cole’s leadership and positive outlook created an atmosphere of optimism and happiness within the organization.
Throughout her career, Rebecca Cole overcame numerous challenges to make lasting contributions to the field of medicine and social reform. She paved the way for future African American women in medicine and fought for gender equality and healthcare access for underprivileged communities.