Elizabeth Garrett Anderson

NAME: Elizabeth Garrett Anderson

WHAT FAMOUS FOR: Elizabeth Garrett Anderson is renowned for being the first woman to qualify as a physician and surgeon in the United Kingdom. Her groundbreaking achievements paved the way for women's inclusion in the medical profession.

BIRTH: Born on June 9, 1836, in Whitechapel, London, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson was a trailblazer in a society dominated by gender norms and restrictions.

FAMILY BACKGROUND: Elizabeth hailed from a middle-class family. Her father, Newson Garrett, was a successful pawnbroker and her mother, Louisa Garrett, was a strong advocate for women's rights. 

In 1840 Newson Garrett moved his family to the Uplands in Aldeburgh in Suffolk where he developed a successful malting business.

She had 11 siblings, including her sister Millicent Garrett Fawcett, a prominent suffragist.

CHILDHOOD: Growing up in a supportive household, Elizabeth was encouraged to pursue education and intellectual pursuits from a young age, instilling in her a sense of ambition and determination.

Described as a curious and independent child, Elizabeth showed an early interest in learning and social justice.

EDUCATION: Initially barred from formal education due to her gender, Elizabeth pursued studies privately and later attended the Middlesex Hospital Medical School, albeit not officially recognized. She faced significant resistance and discrimination but persisted, achieving her goal.

In 1870 Garrett became the first woman to be awarded a medical degree from the Sorbonne University in Paris, two years after France decided to allow women to become doctors.

CAREER RECORD: In 1865, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson became the first woman to qualify as a doctor in Britain. She established her medical practice and later founded the London School of Medicine for Women. 

Became the first woman elected to a school board in Britain in 1870.

Co-founded the London School of Medicine for Women in 1874 and served as its dean for many years.

Championed women's suffrage and was active in the suffragist movement.

Served as the first female mayor of Aldeburgh, Suffolk, in 1908.

APPEARANCE: Described as having a strong jawline, piercing blue eyes, and a determined expression. Dignified and composed, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson carried herself with an air of professionalism and confidence

A portrait of Garrett in the 1860s

FASHION: Known for her practical approach, Elizabeth favored attire that allowed ease of movement. Her fashion choices reflected a blend of functionality and the modest style of the Victorian era.

CHARACTER: Elizabeth Garrett Anderson was characterized by her tenacity, resilience, and commitment to breaking gender barriers. She possessed a strong sense of duty towards promoting women's rights and healthcare equality. She often chose dark colors and tailored clothing.

SENSE OF HUMOUR: While primarily known for her seriousness in professional matters, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson did have a dry sense of humor, often displayed in more private settings.

RELATIONSHIPS: In 1871 Garrett married James George Skelton Anderson of the Orient Steamship Company. The couple had three children. Her marriage was marked by mutual respect, and her husband was supportive of her pioneering career.

Her sister, Millicent, was a lifelong friend and collaborator in her work.

MONEY AND FAME: Despite facing financial challenges, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson's fame grew as she became a symbol of women's progress. Her legacy far exceeded financial gains, contributing significantly to societal shifts.

FOOD AND DRINK: Elizabeth's focus on her career left little room for culinary interests. She embraced simplicity in her diet, prioritizing nourishment over indulgence.

MUSIC AND ARTS: While not a prominent patron of the arts, Elizabeth appreciated cultural pursuits and enjoyed music and attended concerts.. Her busy life, however, limited her involvement in such leisure activities.

LITERATURE:  She read widely, particularly literature related to medicine and social issues.

Garrett Anderson circa 1889

NATURE: Having grown up in a rural setting, Elizabeth had an affinity for nature. She found solace in occasional retreats to the countryside, balancing her demanding urban lifestyle.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS: Her professional commitments left little time for hobbies or sports, but enjoyed walking and reading in her spare time.

SCIENCE AND MATHS: Elizabeth Garrett Anderson had a strong interest in science and mathematics, which helped her excel in her medical studies. Her pioneering work significantly impacted the integration of women into these fields.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY: While not overtly religious, Elizabeth Garrett Anderson was driven by a sense of moral duty. Her work was motivated by a philosophy centered on gender equality and social justice.

POLITICS Elizabeth Garrett Anderson became the mayor of Aldeburgh, Suffolk, in 1908, making her the first female mayor in England. She was elected to this position after retiring to Aldeburgh in 1902. Anderson served in this role for one year.

SCANDAL: Elizabeth Garrett Anderson navigated a male-dominated field, facing resistance and scandal. However, her professionalism and achievements ultimately silenced critics.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS: Elizabeth prioritized her health, recognizing the importance of physical well-being in a demanding profession. She maintained a disciplined lifestyle.

HOMES: She lived in various locations in London throughout her life, adapting her residences to her evolving family and professional needs. Also lived n Aldeburgh, and Paris.

TRAVEL: Elizabeth Garrett Anderson's travels were instrumental in her fight for women's education in medicine.

She traveled throughout Britain to attend lectures and meet with supportive doctors who would provide her with unofficial medical training, as medical schools in Britain refused to admit women.

In 1865, she traveled to Paris to study medicine at the Sorbonne University, eventually receiving her M.D. in 1870.

Throughout her career, she also traveled to advocate for women's suffrage, attending conferences and meetings across Britain.

DEATH: Elizabeth Garrett Anderson passed away on December 17, 1917, leaving behind a legacy of courage and transformation in the medical profession.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA: Elizabeth Garrett Anderson's legacy as a pioneer for women in medicine is commemorated in various media:

Documentaries exploring the history of women in medicine often feature her story.

Biographies detail her struggles and achievements in challenging the medical establishment. various works celebrating her achievements and contributions to women's rights and healthcare.

ACHIEVEMENTS: Paved the way for women to enter the medical profession in Britain.

Established the first medical school for women in Britain.

Advocated for women's suffrage and contributed significantly to the movement.

Became a symbol of female empowerment and social change.

The Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Hospital in London, named in her honor, stands as a lasting testament to her impact.

Source Encyclopaedia of Trivia