Born: 1864 (Bothwell Park farm)
Died: 1952
Marion Gilchrist (5 February 1864 – 7 September 1952) was a pioneer in Scottish medicine and a leading activist in the Women’s suffrage Movement. She was the first female graduate of the University of Glasgow and one of the first two women to qualify in medicine from a Scottish university. Throughout her life, Gilchrist faced numerous challenges and setbacks, but her determination and passion for equality propelled her to become a trailblazer in both the medical field and the fight for women’s rights.
Born on 5 February 1864 at Bothwell Park farm, Gilchrist was the youngest child of Margaret and William Gilchrist, a prosperous tenant farmer. She grew up alongside four older siblings, including her brother Douglas Alston Gilchrist, who later became a renowned Scottish agriculturalist. Gilchrist’s early education took place at the local parish church, but she faced opposition from her father and brother Douglas, who believed that academic pursuits were unnecessary for a woman. Despite these obstacles, her brother John provided her with encouragement, and she attended Bothwell Primary School and Hamilton Academy.
In 1887, Gilchrist matriculated at Queen Margaret College in Glasgow, studying arts. During her time at Queen Margaret College, she began her examinations and ultimately received the Lady Literature in Arts (LLA) qualification from the University of St Andrews in 1890. In the same year, she enrolled at the newly established Queen Margaret College Medical School.
Gilchrist’s determination and intelligence propelled her to excel in her studies. In July 1894, she made history alongside Alice Robson as the first two women to graduate from the University of Glasgow and the first women to qualify in medicine from a Scottish university. They both obtained the degrees of MB and CM. Gilchrist’s achievements at the University of Glasgow extended beyond her academic success. She served as Vice-President of the Queen Margaret College Student Union, Vice-President of the Literary and Debating Society, and Convener of the Queen Margaret College Committee of the Glasgow University Liberal Club. Furthermore, in 1894, she was elected President of the Women Students’ Representative Council at its inaugural meeting at Queen Margaret College, solidifying her leadership within the student community.
After graduation, Gilchrist embarked on her medical career, establishing her own general practice at 5 Buckingham Terrace in Glasgow. She remained at the same address until the end of her life, collaborating with Dr. Katherine Chapman, another pioneering woman in medicine, who led the electrical department at Glasgow University. This department would go on to become the first department of radiography anywhere.
Gilchrist specialized in ophthalmology and served as the Assistant Surgeon for Diseases of the Eye at the Glasgow Victoria Infirmary from 1914 to 1930. Her expertise in this field led to her appointment as an ophthalmic surgeon at Redlands Hospital for Women in Glasgow in 1927. Throughout her career, she dedicated herself to providing exceptional medical care and advancing her knowledge in the field.
In addition to her medical accomplishments, Gilchrist was an ardent advocate for women’s suffrage. She played a significant role in the Women’s suffrage Movement in Scotland, using her position and influence to fight for equality and women’s rights. Her dedication and efforts played a crucial role in paving the way for future generations of women in Scotland.
Marion Gilchrist’s achievements and groundbreaking contributions were widely recognized and honored. Her impact on society and commitment to equality earned her numerous accolades. While specific details regarding awards she received are not readily available, her legacy lives on as a pioneer in Scottish medicine and a prominent figure in the women’s rights movement.
Marion Gilchrist’s life and career serve as a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of equality. Her pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication continue to inspire and empower women today.