Hallie Earle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hallie Earle
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| Born |
Harriet Earle
September 27, 1880 |
| Died | November 1, 1963 (aged 83) McLennan County, Texas, US
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| Education | Baylor University Medical School in Dallas |
| Known for | First licensed female physician in Waco |
| Medical career | |
| Profession | Physician |
| Institutions | Private practice |
| Sub-specialties | Gynecology |
Hallie Earle (1880–1963) was a pioneering doctor and scientist. She was the first licensed female physician in Waco, Texas. In 1907, she was the only woman to graduate from Baylor University Medical School in Dallas. Dr. Earle helped the Waco community for over 30 years. She also took over her father's job as a weather observer. In 1960, the United States Weather Bureau honored her for 40 years of weather observations.
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Early Life and Family
Harriet "Hallie" Earle was born on September 27, 1880. Her family lived in a log house on a farm near Hewitt, Texas. She was the youngest of eight children. Her father, Major Isham Harrison Earle, was a veteran of the American Civil War. Hallie came from a family of doctors. Both of her grandfathers and several great-uncles were physicians. Her grandfather B.W. Earle was an early doctor in Waco. He built the historic Earle-Harrison House.
Hallie's Education
Hallie Earle was a very dedicated student. She studied at Baylor University. Her professors and the university president, Oscar H. Cooper, praised her. The president said her math skills were better than all other students. He thought she would be a great teacher. In 1902, Baylor University honored her. Her master's degree thesis was placed in the cornerstone of the new Carroll Science Building.
After college, Earle taught school in Gainesville, Texas. Then she went to Baylor University Medical School in Dallas. She spent only $30 a month for her living costs. Her letters home showed she was focused on doing well. She earned the highest grades ever recorded at the school. In 1907, she received her M.D. degree. She was the only woman in her graduating class. She continued her medical training in Chicago and New Orleans. She also did an internship at Bellevue Hospital in New York.
Her Medical Practice
For seven years, Dr. Earle worked at Torbett Hospital in Marlin, Texas. This town was known for its healing mineral waters. She also continued her studies and advertised her services.
In 1915, Dr. Earle opened her own office in Waco. She focused her practice on helping women. She was the first licensed female doctor in Waco. Her cousin, Lucille Pearre, worked with her as a lab technician. Dr. Earle also helped with medical exams for female students at Baylor University. She treated both paying patients and those who could not afford to pay. In 1948, Dr. Earle retired from medicine.
A Weather Observer
Hallie Earle followed in her father's footsteps. In 1916, she became the only weather observer for Central Texas. She collected important weather data. The United States Weather Bureau recognized her work. In 1960, she received the John Campanius Holm Award. This award honored her 40 years of service.
Later Life and Legacy
Hallie Earle never married. She lived with her sister Mary and cousin Lucille. After opening her practice, she lived on her family farm. She passed away on November 1, 1963. She is buried at Oakwood Cemetery in Waco. In 1996, the Texas Historical Commission placed a marker on her grave. This marker recognized her many achievements.
