Annie Cook (c. 1840 – September 11, 1878) was a madam who converted her Memphis, Tennessee brothel into a hospital and nursed patients suffering during the Yellow fever epidemics of 1873 and 1878.[1] She has been called the Mary Magdalene of Memphis.[2]
Annie Cook | |
|---|---|
 "Some real Christian women of Memphis..." Weekly Republican, November 2, 1878 | |
| Born | c. 1840 |
| Died | September 11, 1878 |
| Occupation | Madam |
| Employer | Self employed |
| Known for | Nursing patients during the 1873 and 1878 Yellow fever epidemics in Memphis, Tennessee |
Biography
editBrothel
editIt is believed that Cook, whose real name is unknown, was raised in Ohio and was of German descent.[3] She moved to Memphis after the Civil War and opened a brothel called Mansion House.[1]
Yellow fever
editMemphis experienced Yellow fever epidemics in 1873 and 1878. During these outbreaks, Cook converted Mansion House to a makeshift hospital and nursed many who were suffering.[1][4] Her work was recognized in local publications and she received a commendation from the Christian women of Louisville.[5]
Death
editCook died from Yellow fever on September 11, 1878 during the Lower Mississippi Valley yellow fever epidemic of 1878.[1] The Howard Association paid to have her grave moved to Elmwood Cemetery.[5]
References
edit- ^ a b c d Willingham, Justin; Pike, Steve (2012-09-06). "Annie Cook". WKNO FM. Retrieved 2023-03-21.
- ^ "Yellow Fever Heroines and Martyrs – Women of Achievement". 24 November 2017. Retrieved 2023-03-22.
- ^ Randal Rust. "Cook, Annie". Tennessee Encyclopedia. Retrieved 2023-03-22.
- ^ "1878 Epidemic | American Experience | PBS". www.pbs.org. Retrieved 2023-03-22.
- ^ a b "Annie Cook". WKNO FM. 2012-09-06. Retrieved 2023-03-22.