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
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"Some real Christian women of Memphis..." Weekly Republican, November 2, 1878
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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 |
It 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]
Memphis 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]
Cook 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]