This is a transcription of the Dr. Anna B. Taylor-Cole biography from New Hampshire Women: A Collection of Portraits and Biographical Sketches of Daughters and Residents of the Granite State, Who are Worthy Representatives of their Sex in the Various Walks and Conditions of Life, The New Hampshire Publishing Co., Concord, NH, 1895, page 137.
Dr. Anna B. Taylor-Cole
WHEN the bead-roll of New Hampshire women who have proven their power to overcome obstacles to accomplish desired objects, is made up, the name Anna B. Taylor will be found therein. Born in northern New Hampshire, passing her girlhood upon a Whitefield farm, she breathed the spirit of self-reliance with the pure mountain air. A bright, ambitious girl, the tenthin a family of twelve children, she longed for the educational advantages beyond the limited scope of the Whitefield schools. Her wish for a broader life was a prophetic desire, and she made her opportunity. It became possible for her to attend the Western Massachusetts Normal school. Rather than accept the aid which would place her under lasting obligations, she worked for her board during the course and graduated in a dress which she has worn nearly three years, rather than go into debt for a new one. Following graduation she taught school three years, then a crushing sorrow came upon her. Watching long weeks at the bedside of suffering, at the death of the loved one she passed as it were into another life, devoted to the relief of human suffering. She studied medicine at Boston University, meeting her expenses in part by nursing and hospital work. During her course an attack of diphtheria left her partially deaf, but, undaunted by the hinderance, she persevered and graduated with honor in 1884. Settling in Charlestown, she continued her study while awaiting patients, who came not tardily. In 1890 she removed to Somerville, where she has established an extensive practice. Her heart is in her work and her success nobly earned. In 1894 she married Herbert A. Cole of Somerville and unites a happy home life with her professional duties. Mrs. Cole is a petite woman of slender figure, and retiring, gentle manner. Only when her face is studied is seen the strength of character which has won the love of friends, the respect of those who disagree with her, and high rank in her profession.