Mary Page Handy, born around 1860 in Tucson, found herself amidst a challenging marriage when she wed Dr. John C. Handy, a prominent but troubled physician. Her life with Dr. Handy was marked by severe maltreatment, including being forcibly addicted to morphine by him, reflecting the deep control and abuse she endured.
The Turning Point
The situation escalated as Mary sought a divorce, a decision that led to heightened confrontations. In a dramatic and tragic culmination of these tensions, her divorce attorney, in an act of self-defense during a public altercation, fatally shot Dr. Handy. This incident not only highlights the severe personal struggles Mary faced but also her determination to free herself from the abusive relationship.
Legacy and Reflection
Mary Page Handy’s story is a poignant reminder of the personal battles many women faced historically, often behind closed doors. Her struggle and the extreme measures it took to find her freedom paint a vivid picture of resilience and the desperate measures required for some to seek justice.
Further Reading
For more in-depth details on Mary Page Handy’s life and the events that transpired during her tumultuous marriage, visit the University of Arizona Institutional Repository.