W. Bruce Fye Center For the History of Medicine: Cuba

Dr. Will and Dr. Charlie both traveled to Cuba in the 1920s. Dr. Charlie first visited in 1926 then returned in 1930 to receive an honorary M.D. from the University of Havana.  Dr. Will accepted the Finlay Medal and an honorary degree from the University of Havana in 1926, and returned in 1929 for another honor from the same institution. W.W. Mayo made a trip to Cuba and other Caribbean Islands sometime after 1899.

National Academy of Science, Havana, Cuba

(Charles H. Mayo Friendship Gallery)

Back to Start 

These links serve as your quick guide through our exhibit.  Click on a link that interests you to find more information.  To return to the first page click the top tab titled "Mayo Family Travels" or look for the Back to Start link in the Introduction on every page.

International Travels
Argentina |  Australia and New Zealand |  Austria |  Belgium |  Brazil |  Canada |  Czekoslovakia [Czech Republic] |  Cuba |  Denmark |  Ecuador |  England |  Finland |  France |  Ireland |  Italy |  Mexico |  Peru |  Scotland |  Serbia |  Spain |  Sweden

Diplomas, Memberships, and Awards
Original Medical Diplomas |   United States Army Commendations and Awards |  Awards and Memberships from United States |  Awards and Memberships from International Organizations

Images courtesy of the W. Bruce Fye Center for the History of Medicine. For use permission, please contact Center staff.

Orden Nacional de Mérito de Carlos J. Finlay, Comendador

[Charles J. Finlay Congressional Order of Distinguished Service, the Republic of Cuba]

William J. Mayo

January 2, 1929

Certificate conferring the rank of Commander in the Charles J. Finley Order upon Dr. Will by President Gerardo Machado.  This is the highest distinction granted by Cuba in the field of science.

Universidad de la Habana

[University of Havana, Cuba]

William J. Mayo

December 29, 1929

Honorary Doctor of Medicine degree awarded to Dr. Will for his contribution to the progress of clinical medicine and the betterment of humanity. 

Sociedad Nacional de Cirugia de la Habana

[National Society of Surgery of Havana, Cuba]

Charles H. Mayo

January 30, 1930

The society was formed in 1929 for the purpose of exchanging ideas, knowledge and experience relating to surgical practice.  This letter announces the election of Dr. Charlie as a corresponding member in the society.

Universidad de la Habana

[University of Havana, Cuba]

Charles H. Mayo

December 29, 1930

Honorary Doctor of Medicine degree awarded to Dr. Charlie for his contribution to the progress of clinical medicine and the betterment of humanity.