Active Retirement Club learn more about the woman who duped her way into becoming a male army doctor

THE Active Retirement Club of Westbury met on the morning of the 19th April at the Horse & Groom pub to learn more about one of the most extraordinary characters of the 19th Century. 

The club report, “Dr James Barry was born in 1789 and died in 1865. He had a remarkable career as a surgeon, travelling the empire as a doctor in the British Army. He had many historic achievements but possibly his greatest was that as a woman she somehow managed to dupe everyone into believing she was a man. 

“Dressed as a youth she entered the Edinburgh Medical school, qualified, then travelled to London signing up as a pupil of Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital (still dressed as a man). 

“Having finally qualified as a surgeon, she decided to join the British Army, still disguised as a man as this was the only way into her chosen career. She managed to keep this charade going for her entire career which saw her working throughout the Empire with postings in South Africa, the Caribbean, Canada and the Crimea among others. 

“She also fought and survived a duel; despite being injured which almost gave the game away. She was also the first surgeon to carry out a successful caesarean section with both the mother and infant surviving the ordeal. On her death, her secret was finally discovered and so a life unlike any other was finally ended.” 

The club’s next scheduled meeting will take place on the 3rd of May at the Horse and Groom. Guests can enjoy two club meetings free before deciding if they want to join. Membership costs £10 a month. If you would like to join ARC or would like to find out more, please call Mark on 01373 823 826.