Dr. Mary Thomas

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Dr. Mary Thomas

Side One: Dr. Mary F. Thomas, 1816-1888
Abolitionist, suffragist, and temperance advocate Dr. Mary F. Thomas graduated from medical school in 1854 and practiced medicine in Richmond by 1856. She led Indiana’s early suffrage efforts, addressed the state legislature on women’s rights in 1859, served as Indiana Woman’s Suffrage Association president, and co-edited suffrage newspapers The Lily and The Mayflower.

Side Two: Dr. Mary F. Thomas
During the Civil War, Dr. Thomas applied her medical experience in the field while championing both abolition and suffrage. She served as Richmond’s City Physician, assisted the Home for the Friendless, and advocated prison and hospital reform. Elected president of the American Woman Suffrage Association in 1880, Dr. Thomas worked for women’s rights until her death.

Installed 2023 Indiana Historical Bureau, William G. Pomeroy Foundation, City of Richmond, Wayne County Convention & Tourism Bureau, and Wayne County Commissioners