13 Facts About Sophie Lutterlough

Sophie Lutterlough co-identified 40 type specimens, specimens that stand as the representative example of the species.

Sophie Lutterlough graduated near the top of her class from Dunbar High School in 1928 where she took classes in biology.

In 1943, Sophie Lutterlough applied for a job at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.

Sophie Lutterlough was employed on a trial basis as an elevator operator - the first woman in that position at the Smithsonian - and held that position for 14 years, during which she studied the museum's exhibits on her lunch break and became "a one-women [sic] information bureau" to museum visitors.

Sophie Lutterlough worked on identifying the NMNH's insect collection, becoming a research assistant within two years.

Sophie Lutterlough took college courses in science and writing, and studied German to support her development as an entomologist.

Henry Sophie Lutterlough was a member of the Earl Reece Stadtman biochemistry laboratory at the National Institutes of Health.

Sophie Lutterlough remained close to her family and traveled frequently to visit them in New Jersey.

Sophie Lutterlough was widowed, and in 1999, she moved to live with her daughter in Monroe Township, Middlesex County, New Jersey.

Sophie Lutterlough was a member of the People's Congregational Church from 1960, and the first soprano in the choir.

Sophie Lutterlough joined the Cross of Glory Lutheran Church and its choir when she moved to New Jersey.

Sophie Lutterlough died in Monroe Township on 11 February 2009, at the age of 98.

In 1983 when she retired from the Smithsonian, Sophie Lutterlough was honored with an Exemplary Service award.