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The Anarcha, Betsey & Lucy

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The Anarcha, Betsey & Lucy

Anarcha, Betsey, and Lucy were three enslaved Black women whose bodies were exploited in the 1840s by J. Marion Sims, often called the “father of modern gynecology.” 

Suffering from vesicovaginal fistulas after childbirth, they were subjected to repeated experimental surgeries without anesthesia or consent, as Sims refined techniques that would later be widely used. Anarcha endured dozens of operations, Lucy experienced extreme pain and infection, and Betsey also underwent multiple procedures, all while enslaved and unable to refuse. 

Their contributions, long overlooked, are now increasingly recognized as foundational to the development of gynecologic surgery, prompting ongoing reflection on medical ethics, racism, and the true cost of scientific progress.

Each piece is handcrafted in Springfield, Missouri using our signature buttery-soft, ultra-stretch fabric that gently hugs without pulling. The double-layer construction absorbs sweat and stays in place, while the 3-in-1 twist design lets you switch up your look effortlessly. Wear it to your toughest workout, your longest shift, or your everyday moments — because real life deserves accessories that keep up.

The Details: 
One size fits most
Machine washable
Ultra-soft, stretchy poly-knit blend
Double-layer, non-slip, sweat-absorbent
3 ways to wear
Designed & made in Springfield, MO

Sizing:
3.5” at the widest point. Designed for most teens and adults, with flexible, adaptive stretch that expands to fit you comfortably and securely — without squeezing.
Child: 3” at the widest point with a slightly more secure, fitted feel for smaller head sizes. Recommended for ages 4–10.

$5.25

Original: $14.99

-65%
The Anarcha, Betsey & Lucy

$14.99

$5.25

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Description

Anarcha, Betsey, and Lucy were three enslaved Black women whose bodies were exploited in the 1840s by J. Marion Sims, often called the “father of modern gynecology.” 

Suffering from vesicovaginal fistulas after childbirth, they were subjected to repeated experimental surgeries without anesthesia or consent, as Sims refined techniques that would later be widely used. Anarcha endured dozens of operations, Lucy experienced extreme pain and infection, and Betsey also underwent multiple procedures, all while enslaved and unable to refuse. 

Their contributions, long overlooked, are now increasingly recognized as foundational to the development of gynecologic surgery, prompting ongoing reflection on medical ethics, racism, and the true cost of scientific progress.

Each piece is handcrafted in Springfield, Missouri using our signature buttery-soft, ultra-stretch fabric that gently hugs without pulling. The double-layer construction absorbs sweat and stays in place, while the 3-in-1 twist design lets you switch up your look effortlessly. Wear it to your toughest workout, your longest shift, or your everyday moments — because real life deserves accessories that keep up.

The Details: 
One size fits most
Machine washable
Ultra-soft, stretchy poly-knit blend
Double-layer, non-slip, sweat-absorbent
3 ways to wear
Designed & made in Springfield, MO

Sizing:
3.5” at the widest point. Designed for most teens and adults, with flexible, adaptive stretch that expands to fit you comfortably and securely — without squeezing.
Child: 3” at the widest point with a slightly more secure, fitted feel for smaller head sizes. Recommended for ages 4–10.

The Anarcha, Betsey & Lucy | Lilac Market Headbands