Olive Myrtle Henderson facts for kids

Olive Myrtle Henderson was a very important dentist in Chicago. She was the second African American woman dentist in the city. She was also the first African American woman to earn a dentistry degree from Northwestern University. Her work helped open doors for many others.

Early Life and Inspiration

Olive Myrtle Henderson was born in Chicago in 1877. When she was young, she visited a dentist named Ida Gray Nelson Rollins. Ida Gray Nelson Rollins was the very first African American woman dentist in the United States. She had graduated from the University of Michigan in 1890.

Seeing Ida Gray Nelson Rollins at work truly inspired Olive. It made her want to become a dentist too. This shows how one person's success can encourage others to follow their dreams.

Education and Career

Olive Henderson worked hard to achieve her goal. She studied dentistry at Northwestern University. In 1908, she proudly graduated with her degree. This was a big achievement for an African American woman at that time.

A few years later, in 1911, Olive married Thomas Sterling Officer. He was a doctor in Chicago. They had a daughter named Mercedes. Olive opened her own dental office in Chicago's South Side. She worked there for 40 years, helping many people. She retired in 1948.

Community Involvement

Besides her dental work, Olive Henderson was also active in her community. She was a member of the National Association of Colored Women. This group worked to improve the lives of African American women and families. She was also involved with her church, St. Thomas Episcopal. Olive Myrtle Henderson passed away in 1957. She left behind a legacy as a pioneer in dentistry and a dedicated community leader.