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Reference.org
Marie Moentmann
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<p>Marie Moentmann (1900–1974) was a 15-year-old girl who lost her hands and full use of both arms in a factory accident in 1915 in St. Louis, Missouri. </p> <p>She became a center of public attention in what the <i>St. Louis Post-Dispatch</i> called an "extraordinary case." Charity events were held on her behalf while she recovered, and gifts from the public flooded her hospital room. The company where she had been employed as an under-age worker quickly settled her suit for damages. </p><p>She was fitted with artificial hands, which she learned to use with proficiency. She had trouble finding employment but was eventually set up in business by a friend. </p>