The Way it Was: Sex, Surgery, Treasure, & Travel, 1907-1987

by George Crile Jr.

George (Barney) Crile considers himself a lucky man, lucky to be born when and where he was, lucky in his career, and, most of all, lucky in his wives. Barney Crile's parents were of Cleveland's elite during that city's self-described golden age. His father was a founder of the world-famous Cleveland Clinic and a pillar of the medical community. His mother took care of the family and in particular doted on Barney. She kept volumes of letters, photographs, and memorabilia from which her son wrote this fascinating memoir. The early chapters give insights into a social class, football and parties at Yale, medical training at Harvard and the Mayo Clinic, and the beginnings of a distinguished medical career. With his first wife, Jane Halle, Barney Crile also became an accomplished archaeologist, scuba diver, and author. After Jane's death he met Helga Sandburg (youngest daughter of the famous American poet), who became wife, companion, and partner in further adventures in travel and letters.

432 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 1992

About the author

George Washington "Barney" Crile, Jr. was an American surgeon. He was a significant influence on how breast cancer is treated and was a visible and controversial advocate for alternative procedures.

The son of famous surgeon and founding partner of the Cleveland Clinic, George Washington Crile, he was an avid author on many subjects, especially medicine and travel.

Father of George Crile III.

Reviews

[Chad Malkamaki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book about the son of one of the founders of the Cleveland Clinic. This book would be for someone interested in life on Millionaires' Row in Cleveland, early medical practices, life as a globe trotter in the 1950s and 60s, and the controversy over radical operation for breast cancer. Barney Crile married into first the Halle family, and then married the daughter of Carl Sandberg. Barney Crile led a unique life with many adventures and a unique humor.