Woman of Mercy

Woman of Mercy, Story of Dorothy Dix, Compassionate Reformer (previously titled Stranger and Traveler) is the well-researched story of an incredible 19th century woman. Traveling thousands of miles throughout the United States and eventually in Europe, Dorothea Dix documented the often unspeakable treatment of prisoners and those deemed insane. Dix initiated laws and policies for the improvement in treatment of the incarcerated.


By the time of her death, the number of mental institutions in the U.S. had grown nearly tenfold (often designed to her specifications) and sweeping legislation for more humanitarian treatment had been implemented in most states — proof that one individual can effect sweeping change.


Never desiring any personal recognition, she went about her work methodically and with the determination of a true zealot. Interestingly, a U.S. Navy ship, a postage stamp and hospital have been named in her honor.


Dix’s interests were far-reaching. An avid collector of flora, she wrote a definitive book on the subject. She authored several children's books and was instrumental in foiling a plot to assassinate Abraham Lincoln. Serving as the Superintendent of Nurses during the Civil War, she sought to ease the suffering of injured soldiers. Woman of Mercy documents her accomplishments.