Alan L. Hart, a physician and novelist from the Pacific Northwest, is recognized as the first person in the United States to have a surgical gender transition. Born as Lucille on October 8, 1890, in Hall’s Summit, Kansas, Hart moved to Oregon with his mother after his father’s death in 1892. He was homeschooled on his stepfather’s farm in Shedd, south of Albany, where he developed a preference for outdoor activities and rejected traditionally feminine clothing and activities.
When the family relocated to Albany, Hart’s non-traditional interests became more noticeable. He attended regular school, pursued his interests, and formed friendships on his own terms. He enjoyed playing with boys and avoided housework and girls’ clothes. Hart was skilled in essay writing and public speaking. After graduating from Albany High School in 1908, he attended Albany College, now Lewis and Clark College.
In 1911, Hart transferred to Stanford University from Albany College. Despite identifying as a woman, he explored male dress and activities. Financial difficulties led him to leave Stanford and take up jobs, including commercial photography. He returned to Oregon to complete his medical degree at the University of Oregon College of Medicine in Portland, graduating in June 1917.