Elizabeth's Graduation Letter,1849, National Library of Medicine.
GRADUATION AND RECOGNITION
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In 1849, the academic career that started with many challenges ended up in triumph. Elizabeth Blackwell had gained the support of the students, faculty and public and graduated first in her class.
Graduation Address
Eliz. was left to the last; called up alone—the President taking off his hat, rose & addressing her in the same formula—substituting Domina for Domine, presented her the diploma—whereupon our Sis. who had walked up & stood before him with much dignity bowed & half turned to retire but suddenly turning back replied Sir I thank you, by the help of the Most High, it shall be the effort of my life to shed honor upon your diploma—whereupon she bowed & the President bowed—the audience gave manifestations of applause—little Dr. Webster rubbed his hands—the learned curators & faculty nodded grave approbation at each other upon the platform & our Sis. descending the steps took her seat with her fellow physicians in front….
~Yours ever, HBB
Transcript from a Letter by Henry Browne Blackwell, Elizabeth's brother
“This event will stand forth hereafter as a memorable example of what women can undertake and accomplish, too. The inconveniences attending the admission of females to all the lectures in a medical school, are so great, that I feel compelled on all future occasions to oppose such a practice…"
~Charles A. Lee, Dean of Geneva Medical College, in his graduation address to the 1849 medical class
Blackwell's graduation at Presbyterian Church in Geneva,1849, National Library of Medicine.
A list of the graduating Medical Class from Geneva, 1849, National Library of Medicine.
Elizabeth Blackwell's diploma from Geneva Medical College,1849, National Library of Medicine.
Public Press Reaction
The public press recorded the event in a favorable way, but not all the reactions were as positive.
"That to every branch of scientific education the door should be open equality to all; that the application of Elizabeth Blackwell to become a member of our class meets out entire approbation; and in extending our unanimous invitation we pledge ourselves that no conduct of ours shall cause her to regret her attendance at this institution." ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
~ Part of resolution created by Geneva College, 1849
Young ladies all, of every clime,
Especially of Britain,
Who wholly occupy your time
In novels or in knitting,
Whose highest skill is but to play,
Sing, dance, or French to clack well,
Reflect on the example, pray,
Of excellent Miss Blackwell!
~ Britain’s humor magazine, Punch, 1849
An unfavorable notice in the Boston Medical and Surgical Journal, February 7, 1849, National Library of Medicine.
EDUCATION
CAREER