Stammers, Clarence L., M.D.

Dr. Clarence L. Stammers, born in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on September 29, 1887, was a highly skilled medical practitioner and the son of esteemed Selma pioneers William Robert Stammers and Mary Elizabeth Footherape. Arriving in Selma at five years old, he received his early education in the local public schools before pursuing extensive training in ophthalmology, medicine, and surgery. He graduated from the Northern Illinois College of Ophthalmology and Otology in 1907, completed post-graduate work in Los Angeles, and later earned his medical degree from the California Eclectic Medical College in 1914. To broaden his professional expertise, he completed lengthy residencies as an intern at both the French Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital in San Francisco. He officially received his California license to practice medicine and surgery on August 15, 1918.

Following his medical licensing, Dr. Stammers enlisted in the United States War Service during World War I and served in the medical department at Camp Greenleaf, Georgia. Although he passed his examinations for first lieutenant, the armistice was signed before his commission was issued, leading to his honorable discharge in December 1918. Returning to Selma in 1919, he established his medical practice in the Sugar Block and served as an examining physician for local organizations such as the Woodmen of the World and the Independent Order of Foresters. On April 24, 1917, he married Juliette Loraine Stegeman, who subsequently took charge of the Selma Sanitarium at 1701 First Street. Together, they made significant contributions to the health and medical infrastructure of their Central California community.