Jirdes Winther Baxter, the last known survivor of the 1925 diphtheria epidemic in Nome, Alaska, passed away on January 5, 2024, at the age of 101 in Juneau, the state capital. Her son, Fred J. Baxter, confirmed her death in a hospital. The epidemic, which claimed the lives of several children at the time, prompted a legendary sled dog relay that delivered a crucial serum to the isolated town.
Baxter’s journey began when she was just 11 months old. On January 30, 1925, she was hospitalized in Nome with diphtheria, accompanied by a high fever. After her admission, her mother, Ragnhild Winther, and one of her brothers, John Winther, were also hospitalized. Fortunately, her father, Johan Winther, and another brother, Gudmund Winther, did not contract the disease, which is highly contagious and can severely affect breathing and organ function.
Historic Response to the Epidemic
In the face of a growing health crisis, Nome’s only doctor, Curtis Welch, recognized the urgency of the situation. As the number of cases increased, he advised a quarantine after two young children succumbed to the disease by mid-January. Welch understood the pandemic’s potential trajectory and sent out radio telegrams to other Alaskan towns, urgently requesting assistance from the U.S. Public Health Service.
At that time, the only available supply of antitoxin was located 1,000 miles away in Anchorage. Without immediate access to the life-saving serum, Welch knew that lives were at stake. The ensuing response led to the famous serum run, where sled dog teams traversed nearly 700 miles across treacherous terrain, delivering the vital medication to Nome just in time.
The heroic effort not only saved Baxter and countless others but also became a pivotal moment in American history, highlighting the resilience and determination of the community. The event has been commemorated in various forms, including films and literature, cementing its place in the collective memory of the nation.
Baxter’s life spanned over a century, witnessing significant historical events and changes. She often reflected on her early experiences during the epidemic, sharing her story with family and friends. Her legacy now serves as a reminder of the challenges faced during public health crises and the importance of community and cooperation in overcoming adversity.
Jirdes Winther Baxter’s passing marks the end of an era, as she was the last living connection to a significant chapter in Alaska’s history. The impact of her story continues to resonate, reminding future generations of the strength found in unity during difficult times.
