This Week In American History: Lucy Hobbs. Born March 14, 1833 in Constable, New York. Hobbs is the first woman to receive a Ph.D. in dentistry.
Dentistry Apprenticeship in Ohio
In 1859, Hobbs moved to Ohio to pursue a degree in dentistry. Unfortunately, she was denied admission to the Eclectic Medical College and the Ohio College of Dentistry. Her denial was due to her gender. After her denial, dentist Dr. Samuel Wardle agreed to tutor Hobbs. She had the chance to be an apprentice in his office. After her training, Lucy Hobbs opened her own dental practice in 1861.
Dental Practice in Iowa & Graduation from the Ohio College of Dentistry in 1866
In 1862, Hobbs moved her dental practice to Iowa. While in practice, she became a member of the Iowa State Dental Society. As well as, serving as a delegate at the 1865 ADA Convention.
Eventually, Hobbs could enroll at the Ohio College of Dentistry. In 1866, she became the first woman in the world to receive a Ph.D. in dentistry.
Dental Practice In Chicago; Marriage to James Taylor; Dental Practice in Kansas
After graduation, Hobbs moved her practice to Chicago. While in Chicago she met her future husband. She married James Myrtle Taylor, a retired Civil War veteran. After their marriage, Hobbs taught James dentistry. The Taylors moved to Lawrence, Kansas in 1867. While in Lawrence the Taylors established a dental practice. Their practice became one of the most successful in Kansas.
Unfortunately, in 1885 James passed away. As a result, Hobbs retired the following year. After her retirement, she devoted her time to charity and social causes. With her main focus on women’s rights.
Eventually, in 1895 Hobbs reopened her practice. She operated as a dentist until her death in 1910.
The Lucy Hobbs Taylor Award
Today, The American Association of Women Dentists recognize outstanding women in the dental profession. They established the Lucy Hobbs Taylor Award. This award is considered the highest honor they bestow.
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Source: KSHS.org
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
