Cathy East Dubowski

This was short book that packed a lot of incredible information. Clara Barton was born in 1821, the last child of five. Her siblings were much older than she was. She was forgotten at times. From a shy, introverted child, she grew to be one of the most dedicated volunteers for the Red Cross both in Europe, and then in America. As a nurse on the battlefield during the Civil War, she was a strong advocate for the soldiers and their families.

Before this successful vocation, she was a teacher who was too afraid to even say hello when she first entered the class room. Students grew to like her, especially the boys because she played games during recess.

In 1852, she moved to New Jersey where she was amazed that there were no free schools for the poor. She became an advocate of schools for all. From New Jersey, she moved to Washington, DC where she worked in the U.S. patent office. When many became army volunteers, including some of her old students, she immediately wanted to help.

She bought food and necessary items. and even placed advertisements in local newspapers where she noted the dire need of supplies and food. Successful in this endeavor, she obtained a great deal of necessary items for the soldiers.

From a shy introvert, she grew to a strong woman who was not afraid to stand up for others. As the book notes, at the end of the Civil War, there were a half a million soldiers who died in the war, and so very many more who were very injured. Clara was concerned for all, and infact worked hard on trying to place lost soldiers with their families. Once again, in this endeavor, as in her others, she was exceedingly successful. She was able to obtain information regarding 22,000 soldiers.

She actually traveled to Geneva, Switzerland and met someone who told her about "The Internaional Red Cross." Returning home, it was her mission to create the American Red Cross. As noted, she was the first president when she was 59!

From an exceedingly shy and timid youg girl, she was a remarkable brave woman on the battle field. As bullets wized past her, she continued to mend the wouds.

What a person! What a Woman!!! I knew nothing of this person, except her name. Now, after reading this book, I will continue to learn more about her.… (més)