Gloria Hollister Anable, accomplished scientist, explorer, and conservationist, made substantial contributions to discovering and protecting the natural world. 

Born and raised in New York City, Anable’s (née Hollister) interests in animals and anatomy developed early, and were encouraged by her physician father. Anable hoped to become a physician, but her father disapproved, reflecting 1900s societal norms, and instead fostered her pursuit of natural science. Anable went on to receive a M.S. in zoology from Colombia University in 1931. 

Anable’s career was multifaceted and productive, beginning with cancer research and branching into oceanographic and wildlife studies. Her groundbreaking work in the 1930s included: developing new techniques for studying bottom-dwelling fish, setting the women’s deep-sea descent record to find new marine species in the Caribbean, and discovering new plants and animals during South American expeditions. 

In later years, Anable protected people and habitats. During WWII, she helped establish the first Red Cross blood bank. In the 1950’s, she led concerned citizens to protect old-growth forest along southwest New York’s Mianus River, which was under development threat.  This effort led to the creation of the Nature Conservancy. Anable’s vision for the property included science education, and forward-looking resource management. Today the Mianus River Gorge Preserve is a platform for research, education, and recreation, and was the Department of Interior’s first Natural National Landmark. 

Anable lived life and pursued her work with creativity, passion, and courage, despite societal challenges of the time period. Her contributions continue to benefit and inspire new generations to this day.  

“Man, whether he realizes it consciously or not, has an urge to run away from what he has made for himself in order to renew his contact with the world as it was before he put his mechanical mark on it.”—Gloria Hollister Anable

This plaque was created by SUTL Cohort 34.

Photo Credit: Wildlife Conservation Society.