Next Historical Society meeting is Oct. 22

HEBRON — Researcher and author Annette Vance Dorey recently briefed the Hebron Historical Society on the history of early female physicians in Maine.

Initially there was inherent resistance toward allowing women into most medical schools. Those who were allowed could not get degrees but could only gain classroom knowledge. Participation in demonstrations involving cadavers was not allowed for them.

Allopathic Colleges (traditional schools offering an M.D. degree) did not allow women in classes. Homeopathic schools, however, did welcome females.

Around the beginning of the 20th century an increase in women’s medical education took hold as the female population demanded more women doctors to deal with their “modesty” issues as well as their children.

In her book “Maine’s Pioneering Female Physicians,” Dorey chronicled 200 women who were prominent in the state’s medical history and was available for book signing and discussion following her presentation.

The next Society meeting will feature Larry Glatz, who will speak on genealogical research from the Registry of Deeds. This presentation will follow a short meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22, at the Hebron Town Office. The public is invited.