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Black History Month Profile: Mary Eliza Mahoney

Carmen Camacho, RN, BSN

As we settle into February, which is Black History month, it is easy to reflect on many individuals from the past. In addition to our own ancestors, there are others who stand out in our minds and have certain significance in our lives. For me, one such person is Mary Eliza Mahoney.

Mary was born in Massachusetts to Charles and Mary Jane. Early on Mary expressed an interest in nursing. At the New England Hospital for Women and Children Mary began her career in caring. Finally, in 1878, when Mary was thirty-three, she was admitted to the hospital’s nursing program.  
Of the forty-two students admitted to the program, only four made it to graduation. One of the four, Mary received her certification on August 1, 1879, thereby taking her place in history as the first African American professional nurse in this country! Mary’s career spanned forty years and her patients had nothing but praise for the care she gave. Mary was one of the original members of the Nurses Associated Alumnae of the United States and Canada (later known as the American Nurses Association or ANA).

Mary died on January 4, 1926 after a three year battle with breast cancer. She is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, in Everett Massachusetts. The National African American Nursing Sorority, Chi Eta Phi , restored and maintains her gravesite. In 1973 they erected a monument to honor her life and accomplishments. 
 
posted on February 7, 2012