Person

Stoneman, Bertha

1847-1984

Dr Bertha Stoneman, a botanist and professor, was a daughter of Byron and Mary Markham Stoneman, born at Chautauqua County, New York on 18th August 1866. She went to Cornell University, where she studied for a PhB (Bachelor of Philosophy) degree and completed it in 1894 and then completed a Doctor of Science in 1896. She then accepted an appointment on the staff of Huguenot University College, lecturing in botany. An enthusiast about South African plant life, she soon published a well-known book, “Plants and their ways in South Africa,” and built up splendidly equipped laboratories where many noted South African botanists had their training. She was also a lecturer in psychology and zoology. After succeeding Dr Bliss as president of the college in 1921, she turned more and more to philosophy, and filled the Chair of Philosophy at the time of her retirement. Later she became president of the University Convocation as well as a founder and president of the South African Federation of University Women in 1923. She also held office in the Association for the Advancement of Science. After her retirement Dr Stoneman paid a visit to England and America, but later returned to South Africa, where she settled at Bain’s Kloof. She died in her Bain’s Kloof home, Wellington on 30th April 1943.

ZAUCT