Born: 7 Octobere 1845, United Kingdom
Died: 14 April 1908
Country most active: United Kingdom
Also known as: Edith Pechey-Phipson, Mary Edith Pechey
Mary Edith Pechey was a pioneering figure in the early history of women in medicine in the United Kingdom. She made significant contributions to the advancement of women’s rights and played a crucial role in the struggle for women’s access to medical education.
Mary Edith Pechey was born in Langham, Essex, to Sarah (née Rotton), an unusually educated woman for her time, and William Pechey, a Baptist minister with a theology degree from the University of Edinburgh. Raised in an intellectually stimulating environment, Edith developed a deep love for learning.
Pechey’s journey into the world of medicine began when she joined Sophia Jex-Blake’s campaign to study medicine at the University of Edinburgh. She became one of the “Edinburgh Seven,” the first female undergraduate medical students in the United Kingdom. Despite initial opposition, Pechey excelled academically and received the highest grade in her chemistry exam during her first year, earning her a prestigious Hope Scholarship. Unfortunately, due to resistance from male students and faculty, Pechey’s scholarship was denied, which drew national attention, shedding light on the difficulties faced by women studying medicine at the time. The media coverage was generally supportive of women’s educational aspirations.
Undeterred by the challenges in Edinburgh, Pechey continued her medical education in Europe and eventually became a qualified doctor. She embarked on a medical career in India, where she worked tirelessly to promote women’s rights, equal pay, and social reforms. Her efforts extended to campaigning against child marriage and advocating for women’s education and training.
Pechey’s influence was not limited to her medical work; she played a significant role in establishing the Medical Women’s Federation of England and became a prominent figure in the suffrage movement.