Dorothea Rhodes Lummis Moore (1857–1942)

Physician, writer, newspaper editor, activist

What is Dorothea Rhodes Lummis Moore (1857–1942) known for?

Dorothea Rhodes Lummis Moore, born on November 9, 1857, in Chillicothe, Ohio, was a remarkable figure who made significant contributions in various fields. She was an American physician, writer, newspaper editor, and activist.

Although initially a successful music student at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, Moore's path took a different turn when she entered the medical school of Boston University in 1881, graduating with honors in 1884. In 1885, she moved to Los Angeles, California, and began practicing medicine.

Beyond her medical practice, Moore was a multifaceted professional. She served as the dramatic editor, musical editor, and critic at the Los Angeles Times. Her writings also appeared in several prominent newspapers and magazines, including Puck, Judge, Life, Women's Cycle, San Francisco Argonaut, The Californian, and various American medical journals.

Moore's activism was particularly noteworthy. She was instrumental in the formation of a humane society to address the neglect and cruelty she witnessed towards children of the poor and Mexican families through her medical practice. This work led to the establishment of the California system of juvenile courts.

Moore married Charles Fletcher Lummis in 1880, whom she later divorced in 1891, and subsequently remarried Dr. Ernest Carroll Moore in 1896. She was a confidante of Charlotte Perkins Gilman and a life-long friend of Mary Austin.

She passed away on March 4, 1942, in California, leaving behind a legacy of immense contributions in medicine, literature, journalism, and social activism.