Bertha Van Hoosen was born in present-day Rochester Hills, MI in 1863. An American surgeon dedicated to women's health, she as the founding president of the American Medical Women's Association and led a fascinating life documented in her autobiography Petticoat Surgeon. 
 

The play "Three Needles and Suture" explores Bertha's relationship with her sister and niece as all three navigate life, death, family, personal goals, women's roles in society, different types of motherhood and advancing medicine. 

Performance inside the 1927 Calf Barn. Meet & Greet with the cast, along with tea and light refreshments will be served after the production. 

 

2025 “Three Needles & Suture” Credits
 

Alice - Connie Cowper

Bertha - Jan Cartwright

Sarah - Annabelle Young

Playwright - Kamryn Marck

Director - Karen Sheridan

The Rochester Hills Museum is located at 1005 Van Hoosen Road, off Tienken Road between Rochester and Dequindre Roads.