Born: 1882 (Cheyenne, Wyoming Territory)
Died: 1935
Biography:
Mabel Alexandria Seagrave (January 3, 1882 – November 10, 1935) was an American medical doctor who made significant contributions during World War I. Born in Cheyenne, Wyoming Territory, Mabel was the daughter of Arthur Amasa Seagrave and Selina Stone Glass Seagrave. Unfortunately, Mabel lost her mother at the tender age of four, and the family later moved to Seattle, Washington Territory.
With a keen interest in academics, Mabel excelled academically and graduated as valedictorian from Seattle High School in 1900. She then went on to attend Wellesley College, where she further honed her skills in math, biology, and chemistry. Mabel’s dedication to education and leadership was evident as she served as the literary editor of the College News, treasurer of the executive board of Student Government, and helped secure her class’s championship in the college’s 1902 Field Day.
After graduating from Wellesley, Mabel pursued her passion for medicine and enrolled at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in 1907. Despite facing gender barriers, she conquered them and graduated in 1911 as one of only seven women in a class of eighty-nine.
Following her graduation, Mabel spent 18 months as a house physician at the New York Infirmary for Women and Children before returning to Seattle. Back in her hometown, she focused on oral surgery, particularly in children, at the Municipal Clinic of Seattle. Her expertise and dedication to the well-being of her patients made her a respected figure in the medical community.
However, it was during World War I that Mabel’s true impact on society became apparent. In 1918, she joined the national effort to aid those affected by the war and was sent to France by the National American Woman Suffrage Association along with her friend Florence Denny Heliker. Both women were strong advocates for suffrage, and their unwavering commitment led them to frontline medical service in France.
Mabel’s journey in France began at a refugee hospital in the south of the country. Alongside her fellow female physicians, she worked tirelessly for 18-hour shifts, providing critical medical care to those in need. The Women’s Oversea Hospitals, U.S.A., which deployed 78 female physicians to Europe during the war, saved countless lives, including those touched by Mabel’s efforts. Throughout her service, Mabel faced challenges but remained resolute in her mission of healing and aiding others.
Even after the war’s conclusion, Mabel chose to stay in France and continued her medical work. She assumed leadership at a Red Cross hospital and performed essential operations 40 miles away at another hospital. Mabel’s dedication and selflessness earned her the admiration and gratitude of the French people, leading to the award of the silver Médaille d’honneur as a token of their appreciation.
Mabel Seagrave returned to the United States in 1919, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to the medical field and the betterment of society. Her contributions during World War I elevated her standing as an advocate for suffrage, showcasing her ability to break down barriers and serve as an inspiration to future generations of women in medicine.
Awards:
– Silver Médaille d’honneur from France in recognition of her invaluable contributions during World War I.