Sister Ignatia: Angel of Alcoholics Anonymous — Mary C. Darrah (1992)
Offered here is a beautiful 1992 hardcover copy of Sister Ignatia: Angel of Alcoholics Anonymous by Mary C. Darrah, published by Loyola University Press, Chicago, with its original dust jacket.
This important biography tells the remarkable story of Sister Mary Ignatia Gavin, one of the most influential figures in the early history of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Working alongside Dr. Bob Smith in Akron, Ohio, Sister Ignatia helped establish a compassionate approach to treating alcoholism at a time when the condition was widely misunderstood and those suffering from it were often denied hospital care.
Her work at St. Thomas Hospital in Akron, and later at St. Vincent Charity Hospital in Cleveland, helped countless individuals find treatment, dignity, and a path toward recovery. Affectionately remembered as the “Angel of Alcoholics Anonymous,” Sister Ignatia became an enduring symbol of service and compassion within the Fellowship.
Author Mary C. Darrah draws upon historical research, personal accounts, and the experiences of those who knew Sister Ignatia to document her extraordinary life and lasting contributions to alcoholism treatment.
The book includes a foreword by John C. Ford, S.J., historical photographs, extensive notes, a bibliography, and an index. It also explores Sister Ignatia’s relationships with Dr. Bob, Bill Wilson, and other important figures in the development of Alcoholics Anonymous.
An essential historical reference for anyone interested in the early years of A.A., the role of women in its development, and the evolution of alcoholism treatment in America.
Book Details
Title: Sister Ignatia: Angel of Alcoholics Anonymous
Author: Mary C. Darrah
Foreword: John C. Ford, S.J.
Publisher: Loyola University Press, Chicago
Year: 1992
Binding: Hardcover, burgundy cloth with gilt spine lettering
Dust Jacket: Original dust jacket
Condition: Like-new hardcover; excellent original dust jacket
Condition
The book is in exceptional, like-new condition, with no noticeable wear to the hardcover binding. The burgundy cloth boards are clean, and the gilt spine lettering is bright and well preserved.
The interior pages are clean and unmarked, with no writing, inscriptions, highlighting, or other markings.
The original illustrated dust jacket is in excellent condition, retaining its vibrant purple coloring and attractive photographic design. There is minor wear along the upper edges, including a small area of wear near the top of the spine.
Overall, a beautifully preserved copy of this important A.A. historical biography.
Please review all photographs carefully for the exact condition of the book and original dust jacket.
Collector Significance
Mary Darrah’s Sister Ignatia: Angel of Alcoholics Anonymous remains an important biographical reference documenting the life of one of A.A.’s most beloved early figures.
Its detailed account of Sister Ignatia’s work alongside Dr. Bob and her pioneering contributions to alcoholism treatment makes it a valuable addition to any collection of Alcoholics Anonymous history.
An exceptionally well-preserved 1992 hardcover copy with its original dust jacket, ideal for collectors, researchers, and students of recovery history.
