Jirdes Winther Baxter, recognized as the last known survivor of a devastating diphtheria epidemic in Nome, Alaska, passed away in Juneau on January 5, 2024. She was 101 years old. Her son, Fred J. Baxter, a retired lawyer, confirmed her death occurred in a hospital.
Jirdes, pronounced JER-diss, made headlines during the infamous 1925 epidemic that prompted a legendary sled dog relay spanning nearly 700 miles. This heroic effort delivered a critical antitoxin to the isolated town, saving countless lives. At just 11 months old, Jirdes was among the early victims of the outbreak. According to medical records held by her son, she was hospitalized on January 30, 1925, with diphtheria and a high fever.
Her mother, Ragnhild, and her brother, John, were also hospitalized shortly thereafter. Notably, her father, Johan, and another brother, Gudmund, did not contract the disease, which is known for its severe respiratory complications and potential to damage vital organs.
Diphtheria Outbreak and Community Response
In the winter of 1925, Nome, a gold-rush town with a population of about 1,400, faced a critical health crisis. Following the deaths of two young children from diphtheria, Dr. Curtis Welch, the town’s only physician, recognized the looming threat of a pandemic. He instituted a quarantine and issued radio telegram alerts to nearby towns, urgently requesting assistance from the U.S. Public Health Service.
The closest supply of the life-saving antitoxin was located in Anchorage, a staggering 1,000 miles from Nome. With winter conditions hampering travel, Dr. Welch’s calls for help prompted an extraordinary response.
The ensuing serum run involved a team of sled dog drivers who braved treacherous conditions to transport the antitoxin. This remarkable relay, now a pivotal moment in Alaskan history, ultimately delivered the serum in time to save many lives, including Jirdes Winther Baxter’s.
Legacy and Impact
Jirdes Winther Baxter’s life spanned over a century, during which she witnessed significant changes in society and medicine. Her story, rooted in a harrowing chapter of American history, serves as a reminder of the resilience of communities in the face of adversity.
Her passing marks the end of an era, as she was one of the last living connections to the epidemic that shaped public health responses in remote areas. Jirdes’s legacy will continue to inspire discussions about the importance of preparedness and community action in times of health crises.
As communities reflect on her life, Jirdes Winther Baxter remains a testament to survival and courage in the face of overwhelming challenges.
