Destiny's Daughter

Destiny’s Daughter by Frances Altman highlights events in the life of Mary Edwards Walker, maverick suffragist, Civil War doctor and only woman Medal of Honor recipient.

Follow in her steps, as Walker pursues a dream to become one of America’s first female physicians in a society of opposition. She was swept up in unfolding events that never could have been predicted, serving under fire in the Civil War, imprisoned at Castle Thunder; championing women’s dress reform and lecturing on temperance, smoking and women’s abuse. She found camaraderie among soldiers on the battlefield, in Congressional hallways, and patrons of colorful Dime Museums. She charmed generals, presidents, a Queen, and newsmen. She persevered as a strong, opinioned woman who rebutted suffragist leaders but influenced the Postal Service to make changes.

Walker urged women to become independent and to support themselves in a chosen occupation. She recognized her value, turning protesting into a marketing tool for women’s rights.

Destiny’s Daughter is a creative chronology emphasizing a woman’s personality resilience and achievements. Her philosophy and actions parallel the goals of many women today. She still makes a notable model to admire and follow.

Author Biography

This is the fifth biography by the author who spent over twenty years researching the subject. Writing is both Altman’s career tool and hobby. She began writing children’s stories and books as a stay-at- home mother. Then moved into news writing with Field Enterprises’ community papers and The Chicago Sun Times. Later she took positions with Teepak, National Sausage Council, Allied Signal and Virginia Commonwealth University, also teaching there. Simultaneously she obtained a Masters MS degree from Roosevelt University.Altman’s subject matter has varied, from business communications to news reporting and historical commentary. Her work has received awards from National Federation of Press Women, National League of American Pen Women, Public Relations Society of America, and Northern Illinois library Assn. She also received a TWIN award from the national YWCA for her leadership, and work with nonprofit organizations.