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Dr. Nellie Barsness: Minnesota’s Medical Pioneer

Dr. Nellie Barsness, a pioneering female doctor from Minnesota served in WWI for France.

10/09/2025

Pioneer Specials

Dr. Nellie Barsness: Minnesota’s Medical Pioneer

Preview: Special | 1m 21s

Dr. Nellie Barsness, a pioneering female doctor from Minnesota served in WWI for France.

During WWI, female doctors were not allowed to serve in the United State military. But that didn’t stop Minnesota’s pioneering doctor, Dr. Nellie Barsness. She joined the French Army and provided healthcare for thousands of soldiers and civilians. As one of the first women to graduate from the University of Minnesota with a degree in medicine, Dr. Nellie had an illustrious career in St. Paul, MN.

10/09/2025

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Pioneer Specials is a local public television program presented by Pioneer PBS

Pioneer Specials

Dr. Nellie Barsness: Minnesota’s Medical Pioneer

Preview: Special | 1m 21s

During WWI, female doctors were not allowed to serve in the United State military. But that didn’t stop Minnesota’s pioneering doctor, Dr. Nellie Barsness. She joined the French Army and provided healthcare for thousands of soldiers and civilians. As one of the first women to graduate from the University of Minnesota with a degree in medicine, Dr. Nellie had an illustrious career in St. Paul, MN.

10/09/2025

Problems playing video?   | Closed Captioning Feedback

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Before you submit an error, please consult our Video Help page.

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