Greenwich Village Society for Historic Preservation unveiled a historic plaque in NoHo, at 58 Bleecker Street on the corner of Crosby Street, that marks the site of The New York Infirmary for Women and Children, the first hospital for women, staffed by women, and run by women, founded by Elizabeth Blackwell. Blackwell was the first woman in America to receive a degree in medicine, blazing the way for the entry of women into medicine as well as focusing on a social view of medicine which directed its public health efforts to poor working classes. The hospital was open seven days a week and provided medical care for needy women and children free of charge, as well as instruction for women studying for their medical degree.
The unveiling ceremony, celebrated and explored the groundbreaking work of this feminist icon. Speakers included Carey Bloomfield, the great, great niece of Elizabeth Blackwell, Jen Weintraub, Betty Bayer, Dr. Judy Tung, and Virginia Reath RPA MPH, and Andrew Berman, Executive Director of GVHSP.
You can read more about Elizabeth Blackwell and learn more about her life in NoHo in the links below.
Elizabeth Blackwell’s NYC: The historic sites where America’s first female doctor made her mark
That’s Not Pneumonia. That’s the Country’s First Female Doctor.
