Mathilde Weingartner: A Staten Island Naturalist

by Eileen Monreale

Born in 1907 in Zurich, Switzerland, Mathilde (Tillie) immigrated to the United States in 1921. The legacy of Mathilde Weingartner is one of a self taught naturalist who cut her own path, adding significantly to the natural sciences during an era that did not support women in these studies. Among her achievements, Weingartner was appointed as the Curator of Science at the Staten Island Institute of Arts and Sciences and was recognized in the 1966-67 Who's Who of American Women. Friends and contemporaries remember Tillie with a chuckle, a tear and above all, great respect for this pioneer, often thought of as Staten Island's Margaret Mead. The story of Tillie Weingartner is the story of the environmental community in the 20th century, and a glimpse at what has been lost and what has been preserved.

118 pages, Paperback

Published December 31, 2002

Reviews

[Allie M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book by an amazing woman!

I remember trekking along with my mom as she conducted interviews for this book. I was barely school-aged and it felt like magic meeting all these old characters with wonderful stories.

I was there when she gave book talks at our local libraries, churches, and community centers - often acting as her photographer and jr. saleswoman. Watching her, and being a part of her process, made me feel like anything was possible.

This book holds many special memories for me and I would recommend it to anyone!

One fabulous woman writing about and honoring another. What’s not to like?