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Dr. Lucy M. Field Wanzer, First Woman Graduate U.C. Medical Department
Robert S. Sherins, MD UCSF School of Medicine, Class of 1963
In the course of researching material for this manuscript, I came upon documents about the earliest graduating classes at UCSF.1 It was the story of Lucy Maria Field Wanzer that first captured my attention. She was the first woman graduate. Additionally, I have been able to assess the number of women graduates every year since the founding of the Toland Medical College in San Francisco in 18642 and the formation of the University of California Medical Department following the gifting of the Toland Medical College to the Regents of the University of California in 1873.
The life of Dr. Lucy Wanzer was so inspiring that I decided to publish an updated iteration of her biography. A post-script also has been added that summarizes my analysis of the trends of women graduates at the UCSF School of Medicine, 1864-2012. Dr. Wanzer gave up a family life to pursue her life-long ambition for a professional medical career. In so doing, Lucy Wanzer generously served her patients and her community until her death in San Francisco in1930. Her exemplary skills and motivation served to promote the training and honoring of the nurses she admired so much and an ardent advocate of women in medicine. She supported the care of orphans of San Francisco, and helped to provide for empathetic care of the destitute physicians after the enormity of the San Francisco earthquake and fire that destroyed the city in 1906.
Dr. Wanzer was honored as an alumna of the University of California Medical Department Alumni Society, serving as assistant secretary in 1888 and president in 1890. Dr. Wanzer also was considered to be highly intelligent and an outstanding diagnostician, having also lectured to physicians of the California State Medical Society on the subject of the “Etiology and Pathology of [Tuberculous] Pott’s Disease at the 1895 Convention of the California State Medical Society. She was a member of the American Medical Association; San Francisco County Medical Association; the Women’s National Medical Association; a life-member of the San Francisco Academy of Sciences; also served on the Executive Committee and as President of the U.C. Medical Department Alumni Association, served as attending staff of the San Francisco Children’s Hospital, and a number of social and political organizations including: the San Francisco Chapter of the Women’s Temperance Society; member of the Saturday Night Club; member of the California Club; the Century Club; member of the Iota Chapter of the Epsilon College Sorority; member of the Daughters of Rebekah; supporter of the San Francisco Protestant Orphan Asylum; and supporter of the Ladies Hospital for Women and Children.
1 From Michael Eccles, UCSF Director of Alumni Relations; Gary Bernard, UCSF Director of Alumni Development/School Programs; and Polina Ilieva, UCSF Library Senior Archivist. 2 Archives of the UCSF School of Medicine.
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After the 45th anniversary of her private practice of medicine in San Francisco, and at the age of 80, she was quoted (San Francisco Chronicle newspaper) “…the secret of happiness is a love for our chosen professions.” She loved caring for the sick. An editorial remark: “The world and its ways would indeed be better if more would view them [women] with the generous broadness and loving kindness of Dr. Wanzer.3 First woman graduate, UCSF4
As a child in 1840s (Milwaukee, Wisconsin), Lucy Maria Field played nurse to her mother, who was ill with lung fever (tuberculosis). It was then that she realized she wanted to be a physician. But, it was many years before Lucy Field’s dream was realized. Her parents prized education and she received excellent schooling. When her family moved to California
in 1858, Wanzer supported the entire family as a dressmaker, teacher and postmaster.5 In 1865, at the age of 23, she married county clerk James Olin Wanzer. But she divorced him three years later, determined to take steps toward fulfilling her plan to become a doctor. For the next six years she prepared financially by teaching6 and saving pennies to pay for medical school. At the same time she prepared mentally by studying Latin, French, algebra and literature. Finally, at the age of 33, Wanzer applied to Toland Medical College, which had just come under the administration of the new University of California Department of Medicine. She was rejected because of her gender. But, she appealed and after four months won admission because the Regents could find no reason to bar her entrance; the law creating the state university provided for the equal education of both sexes. The dean, opposed to her admission, encouraged the male students to haze Wanzer.7 One professor told her that a woman had no business studying medicine. “If she does, she ought to have her ovaries removed.” Wanzer quietly replied, “If that is true, the men students ought also to have their testicles removed!” Impressed by the young woman, the famed physician Beverly Cole, MD, offered to be her mentor.
3 San Francisco Chronicle, 13 October 1921. 4 From, Medical Alumni Magazine, Vol 50, No. 2, Fall 2009, printed with permission. 5 Lucy Wanzer taught school in Santa Cruz before her entry into the U.C. Medical Department in 1873-1876. She also taught at the Lincoln Elementary School in San Francisco from 1869-1898 (San Francisco Chronicle 13 February 1921). 6 Lincoln Elementary School, San Francisco. 7 Lucy kept her married surname despite her divorce from James Olin Wanzer in 1868.
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When Wanzer graduated in 1876, Cole presented her name for membership in the San Francisco County Medical Society. A blackball was threatened, but when he did not withdraw her name, she was accepted as the first woman member. She opened her first medical office in gynecology and obstetrics on Geary Street. Wanzer also specialized in pediatrics and was one of the founders, original directors, and attending staff of Children’s Hospital. Fortunately the Constitution and By-Laws of the Alumni Association of the Medical Department of the University of California were discovered in the UCSF archives. A copy of the 1885 iteration has been preserved at UCSF in the Lucy Wanzer’ files. Dr. Wanzer was an astute woman and way ahead of time. Dr. Wanzer’s election to the San Francisco Medical Society in 1876 was followed a decade later when she was elected to the Office of the Vice-President of the Alumni Association in 1885-86. It was no surprise to see her name listed among the officers as Vice-President of the Alumni Association in 1885-1886, as well as president during the 1889-1890 term. Lucy Wanzer was a respected physician and obstetrical surgeon in San Francisco, but she did not have the right to vote until August 18, 1919, when the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified by Congress.
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Lucy Maria Field Wanzer, MD (aka Mary Lucy Field)8 Biographic Documentation
Although Lucy Maria (Mary Lucy) Field was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 11 October 1841, for health reasons of her parents, they moved to Madison, Wisconsin. Again for health reasons, they removed to New York, where Lucy spent a year of instruction at the Trawl Institute.9 Again due to chronic illness of the family, they voyaged to California. Lucy’s mother, Lucy Ann Field, probably had tuberculosis. Her physician recommended a warmer climate. In 1858, the fields, voyaging to the west coast via the Isthmus of Panama, settled in Santa Cruz, California. The image below was excerpted from the 1860 U.S. Federal Census taken in Santa Cruz. It lists the parents, Storer Woodbury and Lucy Ann Field, a boarder, Mary L. (Mary Lucy/Lucy Maria) Field, age 19, and another boarder. Lucy Maria/Mary Lucy was unmarried in 1860.
8 1860 U.S. Federal Census, Santa Cruz, California. 9 Ed: Unable to trace the history of the Trawl Institute; perhaps is was part of another school.
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By 1863, Storer W. Field, Lucy’s father, had been elected to the Santa Cruz City Council as Treasurer. He later advanced to the office of the Council President and was instrumental at the time when Santa Cruz was incorporated as an independent city. The event was documented in the Daily Alta California Newspaper (volume 15, No. 4891, 19 July 1863) excerpted below:
During the following decade, Lucy Maria Field remained in Santa Cruz. She is reported to have married Mr. James Olin Wanzer, a Santa Cruz county clerk, in 1865. Documents confirm her whereabouts in Santa Cruz. Lucy served as a telegraph worker and postal manager, teacher and wife. Her married surname was
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listed in the 1870 U.S. Federal Census, Santa Cruz, California. Also listed: Storer W. Field, age 50; Lucy Ann Field, age 47; Lucy M. Wanger (Wanzer), age 28; Sarah A. Field (sister), age 22; Frank F. Field (brother), age 14.
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The following illustrations are copied from the scanned original documents at the UCSF Kalmanovitz Library archives.
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The following illustration from the Constitution of the Alumni Association, page 4 (Article III, Section 2), confirms the merging of all the medical students from “…the Medical Department, University of California or of the late Toland Medical College.”
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Proof of the acceptance of female physicians as full members of the Alumni Association was confirmed in the By-Laws, Article I, Section 3.
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Subsequently during the 1888-1899 term, Dr. Lucy M. F. Wanzer served as President of the San Francisco Medical Society. She was greatly respected and integrated into the medical profession. Other publications attested to her impressive personal and professional accomplishments.
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Dr. Wanzer joined numerous professional societies in the Bay Area. Among them was her election to membership of the California Club in 1898. The roster indicates her home address, which also served as her private office.
10 Skyles, Cathi, San Francisco County Biographies, 2005.
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Dr Wanzer was recorded in the 1930 U.S. Federal Census, San Francisco, California. She was 88 years of age and lived with her brother’s widow, Martha E. Field and a border.
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Title Page: U.C. Directory of Graduates11
Lucy F. Wanzer, MD, Class of 1876
11 Archives of UCSF.
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Lucy F. Wanzer, M.D., Front Row – 2nd from Right
U.C. School of Medicine, First Graduation Class of 1876 San Francisco, California
Lucy Wanzer, MD, Circa 193012
12 UCSF, Archives and Special Collections, https://digital.library.ucsf.edu/items/show/1268
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Dr. Lucy Maria Field Wanzer in the News
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Biographical Excerpts: Lucy M. F. Wanzer, M.D.13
13 Millard, Bailey, “History of the San Francisco Bay Region,” Volume III, pages 196-201. The American Historical Society, Inc., San Francisco, 1924.
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From the UCSF Archives and Special Collections: http://www.library.ucsf.edu/collections/archives
Dr. Lucy Maria Field Wanzer (1841-1933) First Woman Graduate of a Califomia Medical School and Grande Dame of San
Francisco's Medical Community14 It was the suffering and poor health of both her parents that led Lucy Maria Field Wanzer to her history-‐making career as a physician. Lucy Maria, the first of six children of Storer and Lucy Ann Field was born on October 11,1841, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. When Lucy was still quite young, her father was advised to move to Madison for his health, and her mother became ill with what was called lung fever (tuberculosis). In spite of the family's health problems, education was prized and Lucy received excellent schooling in Madison and Hartford, Connecticut. In 1858, the Field family moved to California, again for health reasons. Lucy supported the entire family upon their arrival in Oakland as a dressmaker and later by teaching at Temescal School. A year later, the Fields moved to Santa Cruz where Lucy's father opened a general store and was appointed postmaster. Although her father held the title officially, Lucy actually filled the postmaster position and drew the salary-‐an acceptable practice at the time. She also took over the operation of the telegraph office nearby when that position became vacant. Despite her success at work, Lucy Maria Field Wanzer did not lose sigh t of her desire to become a physician and engaged private instructors to study Latin, French, algebra and literature. In 1865, at the age of 23, Lucy Maria married county clerk, James Wanzer, but divorced him three years later determined to take steps towards fulfilling her plan to become a physician. For the next six years Lucy Maria Wanzer taught in Santa Clara and San Francisco to earn enough money for her medical education. Finally, at the age of33 and with excellent credentials and the backing of influential friends, Lucy Maria applied to Toland
14 From the Oakland Exhibit, August to December 1888, submitted to Dr. Robert Sherins by Margaret Hughes, Assistant Archivist, UCSF Archives and Special Collections: http://www.library.ucsf.edu/collections/archives.
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Medical College in San Francisco, which had just come under the administration of the new University of California. Her admission was summarily rejected by the medical school because of her sex. It was then that her two advisors and allies, John Swift and Rev. Horatio Stebbins, both Regents for the University, engaged their attorneys and demanded that her case be reviewed. Four months later her rejection was overruled on the finding that the charter of the University provided for access to education by both sexes, and that the Medical Department was an integral part of the University. This landmark decision has since provided opportunities for many women medical students who followed in Lucy Maria's footsteps. Once at Toland Hall, Lucy Maria Field Wanzer faced prejudicial attitudes and hazing by the male students, some of which was directly encouraged by the Dean in an effort to force her to resign. But she also had supporters and friends among the faculty and students and a great deal of confidence in herself and her mission. Dr. Hugh Toland, medical school founder and then Professor of Diseases, welcomed Lucy, but felt she would be shocked by working in the venereal disease wards. She replied, "I know the work is hard, but I want to see everything, otherwise I would not be fit to be a medical student.” When she first visited the eye disease ward, another physician told her that "a woman had no business to study medicine; that if she did she ought to have her ovaries removed.” She replied, "If this were so, then the men students ought to have their testicles removed." The famed physician, Dr. Beverly Cole, was very impressed with Lucy Maria and became her mentor, a move that served to dispel further prejudicial actions by any other faculty members. Some hazing incidents followed, including one in which fellow students rearranged the dissecting room, and when she entered the next morning to work, she found they had positioned the cadaver in a manner calculated to shock and embarrass her. It did not; she ignored the whole prank and continued her work as if nothing had happened. From that day on, Lucy Maria Field Wanzer pursued her medical education without further incident, having won the respect and admiration of students and faculty alike. In November of 1876, Lucy Maria graduated with an excellent record and proudly received her medical diploma. Shortly thereafter, Dr. Beverly Cole presented her name for membership in the San Francisco County Medical Society, and she became its first woman member. The doors were then opened to other distinguished women physicians featured in this exhibition. Dr. Wanzer's first medical office was at 130 Geary Street where she had six rooms. Gradually her practice expanded from treating poor women from Tar Flat to society matrons' servants, and ultimately to the society matrons themselves. She also became associated with The Pacific Dispensary for Women and Children and continued clinical work there when it became San Francisco Children's Hospital. By the end of the 19th century, she had moved her private offices to 2970 California Street, a few doors down from the hospital. As an honored guest at the dedication of the new University of California Medical Center in 1898, Dr. Wanzer was pleased and amazed that 22 women were studying medicine that year, and that women had graduated in each of the 22 years since her own historic graduation in 1876. At a dinner in 1924 on her 83rd birthday, honoring Dr. Lucy Maria Field Wanzer's remarkable accomplishments and long and successful career, Dr. Emma Merritt spoke of "her unflagging zeal to duty, of her many deeds of charity, and of her rare devotion to the cause of women in medicine. " Dr. Merritt ended her speech by saying, "possessed of all her faculties, may she live to be a 100”. Dr. Lucy Maria Field Wanzer almost made it, living until she was 93 years old.
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From: Women Physicians Banquet, San Francisco, 1924 Honoring Dr. Lucy Wanzer’s 83rd Birthday15
15 Provided by the California State Library, Sacramento, California with permission to print.
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From: the San Francisco Medical Society, Vol 3, No. 11, November 1930:
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Women Trailblazers of California16
16 Harris, Gloria G, and Hannah S. Cohen, “Women Trailblasers of California,” The History Press, Charleston, SC, 2012.
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Post-Script
UCSF School of Medicine Gender Trends: 1864-2012
Robert S. Sherins, MD
July 24, 2013 Data excerpted from the UCSF School of Medicine enrollment/graduation records revealed exceptional information regarding the gender trends of the School of Medicine. In 2014, UCSF will celebrate the Sequa-Centennial anniversary of the School of Medicine. In the 1920s, the U.C. Regents determined that the official date of origin of the School of Medicine would be 1864 – the date of origin of Toland Medical College in San Francisco. In 1873, Dr. Hugh Toland gifted the Medical College, which included faculty, students and property, to the Regents of the University of California, then called the U.C. Medical Department. The facilities were located downtown near the SF Embarcadero and across the street from the San Francisco City and County Hospital at Stockton and Francisco Streets.
• UCSF School of Medicine graduates, 1864 -2012: o Total 10,916 o Men 7557 o Female 3559
• UCSF School of Medicine graduates, first 15-years, 1864-1878:
o Total 98 o Men 96 o Women 2
• UCSF School of Medicine graduates, most recent 15-years, 1998-2012
o Total 2591 o Men 1143 o Women 1448
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The following data and graphics show the calculations and ratios of the men and women at UCSF School of Medicine, 1864 – 2012 and an analysis and comparisons of the first 15-years and last 15-years.
Date Group Percent Number Graduates
1864-1878 Total 100.00% 98
Male 98.0% 96
Female 2.0% 2
1998-2012 Male 44.1% 1143
Female 55.9% 1448
Total 100.00% 2591
1864-2012 Total 100.00% 10,916
Male 69.23% 7,557
Female 30.77% 3,359
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Calculations from this data showed important trends:
o Pioneer women graduates of the UCSF School of Medicine gained professional status 5-decades before women received the right to vote in America (19th Amendment to the US Constitution August 18, 1920).
o Comparing the first 15-years (1864-1878) to the last 15-years (1998-2012)
at the UCSF School of Medicine, demonstrated a remarkable gain in equality of female admissions. In fact, female graduates in the most recent 15-year period exceeded males by 27% (female 1448; male 1143).
Grateful Appreciation for the Resources Provided
o Polina Ilieva, UCSF Senior Archivist, Special Collections o Michael Eccles, UCSF Director of Alumni Relations o Gary Bernard, Director of Alumni School Program
Research Archives
o UCSF o California State Library, Sacramento o Sutro Library, California State University, San Francisco o California Genealogical Society o San Francisco Genealogical Society o Santa Cruz Genealogical Society o University of California Bancroft Library, Berkeley, California o California Digital Newspaper Archives
Robert S. Sherins, MD UCSF School of Medicine, Class of 1963
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Part II
Lucy Maria Field Wanzer, MD Supplemental Newspaper Publications17
1. Divorce Announcement - Lucy Maria Field Wanzer and James Olin Wanzer
17 California Digital Newspaper Collection: http://cdnc.ucr.edu/
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Sacramento Daily Union, Vol. 35, No. 5453, 17 September 1868. “Maria F. Wanzer was granted a divorce from James o, Wanzer, in the Fifteen District, September 15th [1868].
2. Wanzer, Secretary-San Francisco Temperance Society, 1879:Daily Alta California, Vol. 1, No. 10650, 10 June 1879.
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3. Dr. Wanzer, San Francisco Charities: Daily Alta California, Vol. 32 No.11018, 14 June 1880.
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4. Dr. Wanzer, A Case of Leprosy, Daily Alta California, Vol. 37, No. 12584, 26 September 1884.
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A CASE OF LEPROSY. Tbe Victim a Lady from the Hawaiian Island. On the 19th of the present month a woman giving the name of Mrs. Louisa Bindt applied for admission to the Pacific Dispensary for Women and Children, No. 221 Thirteenth street. She was accompanied by her sister, Miss Francis Johnson, and they said that they had come from Honolulu for the purpose of treatment for temporary attacks of insanity, caused by some disease peculiar to the ear. The custom of the Dispensary is for each of the attending physicians, Drs. Charlotte A. Brown and M. F. Wanzer, to take charge of the institution for one month as a time, and, as the present happened to belong to the first named she was in charge. She had never had any experience with leprosy, and without thought of charge to the patients or the injury to the reputation of the institution, the patient was admitted and her sister installed as chief attendant. The appearance of the woman was so striking that the moment the matron of the Dispensary saw her she objected to her presence and the physician was notified by her of her SUSPICIONS. But the matron was quickly told to keep quiet and attend to her duties, while the physician prepared to get her patient ready for an operation. But among the occupants of the Dispensary was a lady under private medical treatment, who had lived in the Hawaiian Islands for some years, and was thoroughly acquainted with leprosy in all its stages. A few days after the arrival of Mrs. Bindet, the latter visited her room, and the first glance convinced her that the patient was afflicted with leprosy. So strongly was she affected by this knowledge that she refused to stay in the Dispensary. Finally (without further ceremony she packed up her things and left the place. In the meantime Dr. Brown insisted that her patient was not troubled with the loathsome disease, but several physicians were called in to give their opinions, and so conflicting were these that a consultation was arranged for Wednesday. The first information that Dr. Wanzer received of the matter was on last Monday, when she was told by Dr. Brown of a patient under her care whose case presented so many difficulties that she would like her to call at the Dispensary and give her opinion. Accordingly on Thursday Dr. Wanzer made a visit to the place and 6aw Mrs. Bindt and her sister. She was struck with the appearance of the woman, the discoloration of the face, the shocking appearance of the ringers, and the TOTAL LACK OF SENSATION In one of the ears. In order to satisfy herself she took a needle and pierced the ear without the patient showing the slightest sense of the puncture. From what she had read and from the report of the matron and the story of the patient who bad left the Dispensary, Dr. Wanzer at once decided that the case was leprosy, and Dr. Brown was again informed of the true facts of the case. Among the early visitors was Dr. Lane, connected with the Young Mens' Christian Association, who has had considerable experience with the disease. He unhesitatingly pronounced it a genuine case, and also informed them that a brother of the patient was also a leper and had gone East
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for treatment. This was stoutly denied by both the patient and her sister. As for the first she said she had raised a family of five children, and she would not admit that she had leprosy in any form. This matter could not long be kept secret, and Dr. Wanzer made constant efforts to have the Dispensary free from the presence of the patient, but without avail, so on Tuesday she visited the Health Office to tell Dr. Meares of her suspicions. He was not in, but the matter was told to one of his clerks. At the consultation on Wednesday, Dr. Meares was present and after examining the patient he said the first diagnosis of the case was incorrect, and that it was an undoubted case of leprosy. This proof was conclusive, and he promised to have the woman removed with twenty-four hours. A special meeting of the Directors was held last evening at the residence of Mrs. W. B. Harrington, President of the Board of Managers, when it was decided to have the woman removed from the institution and sent back to Honolulu. The following note was sent to this office at a late hour: The patient referred to in last evening's Post and Bulletin was admitted to the Pacific Dispensary Hospjtal on Friday evening, September 19th, suffering from some disease requiring surgical intervention. An eruption on the face, subsequently caused some suspicion. As soon as possible an investigation was made. The Board of Consulting Physicians and the Health Officer were called, when the case was deemed sufficiently questionable to warrant her being sent at once to her home in Honolulu. By order of Board of Manager, Mrs. W. B. Harrington, President. 5. Dr. Lucy M. F. Wanzer named as attending staff of the Children’s Hospital, San Francisco. Daily Alto California, Vol. 80, No. 11, 11 Jan 1889.
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6. Dr. Lucy M. F. Wanzer named to UC Medical Department and Toland Medical College “Society of the Alumni” – Dr. Wanzer serving as the chair. Daily Alta California, 21 November 1890.
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7. Dr. Wanzer, Dr. Emma Sutro Merritt, et al: University of California President Kerr, Honors Budding Doctors Alumni; Daily Alta California, Vol. 83, No. 144, 21 November 1890.
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8. Storer Woodbury Field, Obituary. San Francisco Call, 7 April 1894. Interment 8 April 1894, Santa Cruz, California; San Francisco Call, 8 April 1894.
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9. Dr. Wanzer, Patient Confident at Death. San Francisco Call, Vol. 76, No. 67, 6 August 1894.
10. Honored by University’s Affiliated Colleges (Banquet): San Francisco Call, 28 April 1895. Mrs. Dr. Wanzer representing the alumni of the medical department of the University of California, said: We hail with delight the prospects of a new home, where we shall have the benefit of improved appliances and
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accommodation. We thank, sincerely, Senator Bippy and our honored Governor. We need different accommodations than were sufficient a decade ago. Our students must have facilities for scientific study. Let us hope that nil of our alumna) will endeavor in the right spirit.
11. Dr. L. M. F. Wanzer, The Medical Society's Election. . Sacramento Daily Union, 20 April 1888. San Francisco, April 19th.— [Special.]— The State Medical Society today elected the following officers: President, Dr. James Simpson, of San Francisco (without opposition); First Vice-President, Dr. Walter Lindley, of Los Angeles; Second Vice-president, Dr. W. T. Dawson, of St. Helena; Third Vice-President, Dr. W. A. Briggs, of Sacramento; Fourth Vice-President; Dr. J. K. S. Baker, of Angel's Camp; Permanent Secretary, Dr. William Watt Kerr; Assistant Secretaries, Drs. M. L. F. Wanzer and H. W. Sherman. (Dr. Wanzer is a lady member of the profession.) Treasurer, Dr. G. L. Simmons (re-elected)… 12. Dr. Lucy Wanzer Return Visit to Parents (Santa Cruz), Daily Alta California, 23 June 1889. THE SOCIAL WORLD. Dr. Wanzer has returned from a visit to her parents, Mr. and Mrs. S.W. Field of Santa Cruz. 13. Dr. Lucy L. Wanzer, et al, Medicos Feast at A.M.A: San Francisco Call, Vol. 76, No. 5, 5 June 1894.
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14. Dr. Lucy Wanzer: Died With Her, San Francisco Call, Fol. 76, No. 67. 6 August 1894. DIED WITH HER. The Story of a Young Woman's Secret. Pathetic Incidents Surrounding the Close of the Life of Miss Anna Koster. When Miss Anna Koster, the young telegraph-‐operator, died Saturday as the result of a criminal operation performed by herself, her most cherished secret died with her. True to the man who had wronged her, she refused to divulge his identity, and despite the entreaties of her aged parents and her most intimate friends she died with the secret still her own. Miss Koster was a remarkable woman in many respects. During the long period that she was employed by the Postal Telegraph Company she succeeded in establishing a reputation as a shrewd businesswoman, and at last was rewarded with the position of manager of the local office. In this capacity she made many friends by her dignified manner and quiet, ladylike demeanor. Not the slightest whisper against her reputation was ever heard. When Miss Koster
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was taken ill a few days ago she sent word to the office at 543 Market street that she was not feeling well, but hoped to be around again in a few days. Nothing was thought of the matter until a week had passed by, and still she was absent. ln the meantime she had become very ill, but refused the offer of Mrs. Dall, her landlady, at 732 j Sutter street, to call in a physician. She said she was abundantly able to prescribe or herself, and that she would be all right in a few days. But she did not improve in health as she expected. Instead she became more depressed and at times delirious. Then Dr. Wanzer, a lady physician, was summoned. It was but the work of a moment for the physician to ascertain the cause of Miss Koster's illness. She confronted the young woman with the facts and had her diagnosis sustained by a confession. She begged the physician to keep the cause of her illness a secret and received a promise in return. ln the meantime Superintendent Storrer, who had charge of the Postal Telegraph I Company's lines on the Pacific Coast, called to see how Miss Koster was prospering. When he learned how serious her condition was, he telegraphed the facts to John W. Mackay at New York, and was instructed to use every means to restore Miss Koster to health. Mr. Mackay regarded Miss Koster as a very valuable employee and directed that she receive the best medical attention. As Miss Koster was sinking instead of improving, Dr. Wauzer was discharged and Dr. Wheeler employed. He called in another physician in consultation, and everything was done for the unfortunate woman, but she gradually sank until she died on Saturday. A few hours before her death Miss Koster dictated and afterward signed a statement exonerating her physician from any blame, and stating that she had performed the operation upon herself. Her assertions, in this regard, are borne out by a number of instruments found in her room. Dr. Wheeler sent this statement to the Chief of Police. Miss Koster's aged parents are nearly heartbroken over the disgrace of her death. They did not know the cause of their daughter's illness when summoned from their home at Pescadero, and were only aware of the facts of the case a few hours before the young woman's death. 15. Wanzer et al., Honored by the Alumni, San Francisco Call, 28 April 1895. HONORED BY THE ALUMNI. Banquet in Celebration of the University's Affiliated Colleges. GOVERNOR BUDD PRESENT. A Brilliant Gathering in the Palace. Speeches on the New College. A banquet was given last evening at the Palace Hotel by the Alumni Association of the University of California in honor of Governor Budd. In the fullest sense of the word it was brilliant, and more than that, harmonious good-fellowship among old friends who had been boys together in college waited on the appetites of the festive party. The Governor's wire occupied the seat* of honor next to Alexander F. Morrison, president of the Alumni Association, and next to her sat the State's chief executive, beaming with smiles and happy with the world and everybody else. Maple Hall was never brighter on a banquet night. The rich apartment was ablaze with electric lights, while the tables were beautiful indeed with their decorations and floral adornment. There was a sparkle everywhere, the silver candelabra, pink shaded and shining, contrasting richly against rows of green palms and growing ferns in ornamental pots. Then strewn along the center of the tables were cut flowers and fern leaves,
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from out of which rose silver vessels flowing over with luscious fruits. Invitations had been sent to all members of the Legislature, to the board of regents of university and the faculties of the university and its affiliated colleges. A few hundred persons responded and were present when the Governor arrived last night. The party assembled in the parlors of the hotel, and entered Maple Hall with Mrs. Budd and Alexander F. Morrison leading the way, and the Governor with his party following. President Morrison of the Alumni Association took the chair at the head of the table. At his right sat Mrs. Budd, Governor Budd, Mrs. Alexander P. Morrison, John Budd, brother of the Govetnor, and Miss Todman, while at his left were seated Senator Biggy, Dr. R. Beverly Cole, Curtis H. Lindley, Timothy Guy Phelps and Judge Phelps. The guests were as follows: F. O. Jacobs, Dr. W. W. Kerr, Dr. Kughler, Rev. W. I. Kip Jr., W.F. Louis. Dr. W. B. Louit, A. L. Lanfeld, S. K. Lukens, T. W. B. Leiainl, Professor A. C. Lawson, Dr. F. F. Lord, Morisrton Manson, Dr. C. 8. Mann, H. C.McPike.Dr. W. K. McXutt, O. K. MeMurray, Miss L. Mac McLean, Dr. O. J. Mayer, Dr. J. P. McCone, Dr. R. A. McLean, B. H. Melvin, K. S. Moore, Mac Treat Morrison. Dr. J). W. Montgomery, A. F. Morrison, Man K. Morrison, W. H. McGee, Mary Moody, Professor B. Moody, L. Newmark, Piofessor E. C. O'Neal, Dr. L. P. oviedo, Professor Albine Pootsker, E. J. Pringle Jr., E. D. Peixotto, Miss J. Peixotto, R. M. Pri^e, Professor F. V. Paget. Dr. Morrisev, Dr. F. 11. Payne, J. J. Rivers. Dr. H. 5:. Rucker, Professor G. M. Richardson, Dr. Ruthgausrer, Dr. N. Rosters, G. D. Reinstein, Q. Zeitzke, H. Ryfko<?el, A. Ruef, W. B. Storey Jr., Dr. Sarah I. Shuey, C. H. Shinn, Dr. B. R. Swan, W. M. Searby, Mrs. Hattie J. Shute, Judge C. \V. Slack, A. L. Stone, Dr. M. J. Sullivan, Dr. W. C. Reith, W. M. Abbott. H. T. Ardley, J. J. Arginty, E. A. Bagot, A. P. Black, F. D. Brown, F. A. Beckett, E. Bonnell, W. W. Banertm, Dr. J. H. Barbat, T. F. Barry, .7. E. Budd, C. Bartlett, P. A. Bergeroi, \V. J. Brobeek, C. E. Bacon. L. S. Burchard, L. Bartlett, 11. Oalvert, ,1. C. Conrad, A. A. Cunningham, Dr. C. A. Clinton, X. T. Coulson, Dr. R. L. Cox, Dr. B. Cole. A. A. de Ancona, J. J. Dwyer, W. R. Daingerfield, C. M. Belshaw, H. Dyer, Dr. L. Dunbttr, <ieorge W. Dufficy, W. R. Davis, Dr. F. W. d' Evelyn. Dr. Washington Dodge, Dr. C. Dechmiller, F. Dunn, Professor G. C. Edwards, A. G. Ells, D. W. Edleman, Dr. A. Fine, V. B. Frank, A. M. Fulton. Miss Frances A. Dean, C. E. A. Foorster, Dr. S. J. Frazer, Dr. J. J. Fottrell, Cliarlea A. CartiT, C. W. Goddard, F. I). Green, Dr. yon Huffman, L. T. Hengstler, A. P. Hayne, B. L. Hodgehead, J. F. Houghton, Catherine 11. Hittell, Kate R. Howell, I. W. Hellman Jr., J. D. Ilodgen, Professor C. A. Seifert, Dr. ,T. R. Swisher, Dr. C. Boblel, frofeaaor Y. Boole, M. Beellgsohn. K. B Smith, E. D. Swift, M. W. Shlnn, E. R. Thoma■on. Miss J. M. Todman, Dr. S. P. Tuggle. J. H. Topler, Edmund Tauszky, L. M. V. Wenzel, J. W. Ward, O. A. Weihe, Dr. Wright, I>r. (J. K. Shields. X viand B. Wallace, W. T. Wenzel, Joseph B. Warren, T. P. Woodward, J. M. Wilson. A. T. Vofelslne, A. J. Younger, E. M. Wolf, Hon. C. S. Arms.. E. F. Bert, J. L. Beard, W. J. Biggy, W. T. Boothby, J. Brnsie, Bart Burke, James H. Budd, >;. S. Deimon, M. A. Devine, J. Devitt, H. G. W. DinkelspieL O. w. Dickson, L. Diner, C. Gesford, J. M. Cleaves, A. P. Hall, H. Haley, Hcior Jacobs, M. Kellogg, J. Kahn, C. Lindley, J. H. Mahoney. I. M. Morrill, John
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McCarthy, Hart H. North, John O'Day, T. G. Phelps, E. O. Seamore, K. I. Thomas, J. H. Thibets, E. 8. Tonibhn, J. A. Waymire. The following dainty menu was served, while between the courses an orchestra discoursed a great variety of popular music, and the university graduates either repeated the old-time college yell or sung to the music. BANQUET OF THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION of the UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA in Ilouor of the AFFILIATED COLLEGES. Hultres do Callfornle. Consomme Royale. Crusta Blanca Sauterne. Sauelsson, Radis. Celeri. Olives. Filet de Sole, Pieinioise. Pommos I'ersillade. Quanier d'Aßiieau, Brptonne. Croquette de Ris de Veau à la Relne. Punrh a la Romalne. Everett Ranch Claret. Dinde Rotie Farcip. Salade de Chlcoif c. Asperses au Benrre Tondn. Creme Olacee Panachee. Gateaux ARsortis. Dessert. Cafe. Palace Hotel, » Samedi le 27 Avrll, 1895. The toasts were given and responded to as follows: "State of California," Governor Budd; "The Legislature," Senator Biggy; "Regents of the University," Timothy Guy Phelps; "Medical Department of the University," Dr. R. Beverly Cole; "The University Faculty," Professor Bernard Moses; "Law Department of the University," J. J. Dwyer; *'The Aluminae," Mrs. Dr. Wanzer; "The College of Pharmacy," William W. Searby; "The Dental College," Dr. L. L. Dunbar; "The Polyclinic," Dr. George T. Shiels; "Alumni Association," J. B. Rernstein. The chairman rapped for order, and, in a brief address, said : "We have assembled here to-night to celebrate one of the grandest events that ever occurred in California; for what can be grander or greater than the establishment of the seat of education, the sciences, arts, literature and the professions in our State." As he continued he grew eloquent in extolling the benefits of the university and its professional schools, but he regretted that the graduates of one of the colleges were not acquainted with those of another one. He told Governor Budd, amid the most ardent applause, that as the chief executive officer of California he used his golden wand when signing the bill that is worthy of being called the new charter of California. The value of this bill to the university was only too well known to all present. He introduced the Governor, and instantly the overgrown college boys were on their feet cheering three times for Budd. When their applause ceased the Governor began his address, in which he first thanked the party for their warm reception. The Governor mentioned the bills appropriating $250,000 for the affiliated colleges and $350,000 for a State building in Ran Francisco, known as the Biggy bill. He brought Senator Biggy and Dr. Cole together. "But when Biggy found that both bills could not carry he said to me," continued the Governor, Jim for he always calls me Jim. If the two bills cannot go through in the interest of the university, let mine sleep. We have given to the State of California that is the Legislature and myself — this $250,000 and yet decreased the taxes of the State below the pledges of both parties. The two parties — the Republican represented by the Legislature and the Democratic by the Governor — have kept their pledges to the people. "We are now one of the proudest universities of the country. I have heard that there are 1300 students in the university today.
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When some of my friends here with myself went in 1809 there were but twelve students. We spoke about the Stanford University, saying it is in a precarious condition through litigation, which is very unfortunate. It spurred on the University of California, which improved under the competition. In closing, the Governor held it would be better far to let it be sustained as it is than that the money on which it was founded should go into the coffers of the United States Government. Senator Biggy was introduced and received three hearty cheers. He said: "I am at a loss to express my feelings this evening. I love the university, because it is the people's university; a place where the poor and the rich can obtain an advanced education on a footing of equality. I did my duty simply, and I feel tonight that I've received an honor that can never be forgotten. The Governor referred to me in glowing terms, and for it all, believe me, I'm very thankful. Letters from Arthur Rodgers and Professor Holden were read, the latter's being confined almost exclusively to the Lick Observatory, which he was proud to state was the strongest in the world. Timothy Guy Phelps, a regent of the University, said: The regents have felt how much was to be done for the affiliated colleges, realizing how important it was that they should be brought into closer association and nearer to the University itself. All our energies were directed toward securing this appropriation for a college building, and I doubt not that the hopes of those men who have struggled for years on behalf of those colleges have been more than fulfilled. I had the honor to be a member of the last Legislature, and found that the legislators were aware of the wants of the University of California. We found that it was easy because the alumni had said so much to make the | people familiar with the Work of their Alma Mater. And they knew that the chief executive was one of those alumni, and by refusing to sign his name to unnecessary bills he proved himself to be the friend of the people. I doubt not that in the next four years the University of California will receive double that appropriation. When the Stanford University was established we thought it might affect our university, but since then the students have increased in numbers by 400, and I doubt not that before another four years will have passed the buildings will not be large enough to accommodate the growing demands. The university is in its infancy, but it is young and strong, supported by the hearts of the people and let me say that no institution can ever fail that is supported by the manhood of this State. Professor Bernard Moses was introduced. When he stood up the applause grew long and uproarious. He regretted that the head of the university could not be present to speak for it, and continued, saying: In the development of great municipal corporations there are outlying parts partaking of their life, there arises a movement far greater [than] London, a greater New York, a greater Chicago. We
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celebrate this movement tonight— a greater university; the beginning of a movement that tends toward the realization of the destiny of the University of California. Whatever is planted or sown here falls upon good ground, and it is to the young men of this State that we have to look forward to the fulfillment of the work we are doing, and the faculty of the university, therefore, looks forward to the people of the State for the development of the greater university. The medical element arose and waved their napkins and cheered when Dr. R. Beverly Cole was introduced. The doctor thanked his friends, and then alluded to the Governor. He said: I have learned to love that man when I heard he said: "I don't want to see Cole. That was when I sought his signature to the bill for our colleges. He thought I was a live Cole, and did not want to be burned. But l am prepared to maintain that he is a man who never goes back on his word. I have no ambition, however, to be known as the "King of the Lobby," though I did missionary work with eighty-nine members of both houses. While in Sacramento I met a young man there whom, like the Governor, I learned to love— Biggy. His name ought to be written, "Bigger." All honor to you of the Legislature that you should have the intelligence to grasp this situation. The Governor, who pledged himself to economy, was impressed with the merit of what we were asking for, and he proved himself to be our friend. And now I will ask you not to forget one of our apostles, Senator Biggy. J. J. Dwyer spoke on behalf of the law department of the university. He held that college men should set up a standard of political integrity. The college must continue to be the nursery of statesmen, or the fabric of the country will totter to ruin. The university has set up in her halls the aristocracy of knowledge and virtue, and is destined to become the presiding genius of the West. In an eloquent peroration he said: "Let us carry back to Berkeley her trophies and hang them on the walls, as the Greeks of Delphi did upon their temples." Mrs. Dr. Wanzer representing the alumni of the medical department of the University of California, said: We hail with delight the prospects of a new home, where we shall have the benefit of improved appliances and accommodation. We thank, sincerely, Senator Bippy and our honored Governor. We need different accommodations than were sufficient a decade ago. Our students must have facilities for scientific study. Let us hope that nil of our alumna) will endeavor in the right spirit. Dr. George F. Shiels said that the polyclinic, which has become the post-graduate college of the medical department of the University of California, invited him to represent it at the banquet. He sketched an outline of the polyclinic until today it has a building of its own for treatment of the poor of San Francisco, and concluded by stating that the polyclinic rejoiced with the affiliated colleges on this occasion. Dr. William M. Searby, representing the College of Pharmacy, said: "I am here tonight to express the joy and congratulations in conjunction with the university and its affiliated colleges. The professional departments needed this money very badly
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that they might be properly housed and have a place to properly do their work. The university could not afford to be behind other universities in any of its deportments, and it was behind many. But NOW that we nave this appropriation I feel satisfied we will be equal to any of them. That means bringing us nearer to the people and giving us a tremendous stimulus in inducing young men to study in the different departments of the university. The speaking concluded at "midnight with an address by Dr. L. L. Dunbar for the dental college, and Attorney J. B. Reinstein, Governor Budd's classmate, for the alumni association. 16. Dr. Wanzer, To Care for the Sick: San Francisco Call, Vol. 77, No. 113, 2 April 1895. Eleven Trained Nurses Graduate and Receive Diplomas. - An Address Delivered to Them In the First Presbyterian Church. The' lecture-room of the First Presbyterian Church, corner of Van Ness Avenue and Sacramento street was beautifully decorated with evergreens and lilies last evening, it being the occasion of the graduation of eleven of the nurses of the" Children’s Hospital on California street, corner of Maple. The hall was crowded with members of the church and relatives and friends of the graduating class, which consisted, of the following named ladies Laura Baker Helena Mary Marshall, Alice Hussey, Annie Elizabeth Stevens, Mary Elizabeth Phillips, Emma Roberts, Cora blanche Espy, Annie Hortense Armstrong, Gertrude La Page, Louise P. Brachce, Minnie Louise Ralph. Circled around the platform, which was occupied by Mrs. W. B. Harrington, president of the Children's Hospital, Rev. W. C. Merrill, assistant pastor of 7 the church, and Dr. Beverly MacMonagle of the hospital, were thirty young ladies attired in the uniform of the training , school, light blue gowns, white aprons, white lawn ties and neat little white caps. The graduates wore at the belt a handsome corsage bouquet of red roses and delicate ferns, while the other members of the class wore each a pale pink rose. They formed a pretty picture. After prayer by Rev. Mr. Merrill, Mrs. Harrington introduced Dr. MacMonagle, who said that the young ladies who had assembled to receive their diplomas had spent much time in the study of a profession, which is arduous, but full of charity. There are some things he said that men may do better than women, but there is one thing in which woman excel men, and that is in nursing the sick. The training school in connection with the Children's Hospital, from which the young women graduated is the first of the kind established on the Pacific slope. Much credit was due to Mrs. Dr. Browne and to Dr. Wanzer, who had inaugurated the movement and to the present management that had done so much to bring' the school to its present state of perfection. To these young women who had devoted so many months to learning how to care for the sick, the community owes a debt of gratitude, and should show its appreciation of their services in time of need. On the other hand; the nurses owe a duty to those who employ them and that is to relieve trouble and - not create additional trouble by reporting as matters of idle gossip that which may come under their observation.
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He spoke to them at length of their obligations - the necessity for continuing their studies and becoming, as they may, the right hand of the physician. He closed by expressing the hope that at no distant day some liberal-hearted man will give a sufficient sum to build a separate dormitory for the nurses, of which they now stand very much in need. The Rev. Mr. Merrill spoke at some length and declared that the time is at hand when the Protestant world is no longer to permit the sister church, the Roman, to have all the Sisters of Mercy. He then spoke of duty of the church and the need for more energetic work. He predicted that within the next ten years there would be seen in every city great brotherhoods going out as the Nazarene went out to lift up fallen humanity and great sisterhoods of young women, many of them trained nurses, devoted Christian souls who have sat at the feet of the Master and have learned of him the secret of salvation and how to save. He then paid a high tribute to the young women who had sacrificed so much time in order that they might learn to care for the sick and the suffering, and dwelt upon the unselfish motives that had prompted them to devote themselves to the relief of the distressed. Mrs. Harrington then, in a few well-chosen words, in which she spoke of the duties they would have to perform, handed each graduate her diploma. As soon as the benediction had been pronounced relatives and friends crowded around the graduates and loaded them down with flowers.
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17. Dr. Wanzer Attends Nursing Student Graduation-‐Children’s Hospital, San Francisco; Prescription In Chinese, San Francisco Call, Vol. 82, No. 130, 8 October, 1897.
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Dr. Lucy Wanzer, Presented Medical Paper, “Etiology and Pathology” at the California State Medical Society in San Francisco: San Francisco Chronicle, 17 April 1902. State Medical Society
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convened at the Auditorium, Golden Gate Hall, San Francisco. Final evening banquet was held at the Palace Hotel, Maple Room.
18. Dr. Wanzer, Children’s Hospital Committee Call for Physicians Wanting Aid After San Francisco Fire, 1906 San Francisco Call, Vol. 99, No. 160, 9 May 1906.
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19. Dr. Lucy Wanzer Honored at Saturday Night Club, San Francisco 1909; Women Medicos Enjoy First Program Since the Fire, (1906); San Francisco Call, Vol. 105, No. 111, 21 March 1909.
20. Dr. Lucy Wanzer, Age 80, Celebrates as U.C. Medical Graduate: San Francisco Examiner, 1921.
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21. Dr. Lucy Wanzer, “Secret of Happiness,” San Francisco Chronicle, 13 October 1921.
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