It was by mere  coincidence that my father, M.D. Serrot, set up his
     practice of Veterinary medicine in Medicine Lodge.
       After receiving his degree from Kansas State University in 1910, he
     was traveling by train to Oklahoma, where he was told he might find an
     opportunity practive. He became in engaged in conversation with a stranger
     who proved to be A.D. Shaw, owner of large ranches in Barber County and
     surrounding counties. Shaw suggested to "Doc,' that he might stop at
     Medicine Lodge and look over this situation, as a man of his profession
     was needed there. Dad liked what he found, could forsee a need for a
     Veterinarian, and was impressed with the genuine friendliness of the
     people. He stayed until his death in 1962. You might say he was a pioneer
     in his field, thus paving the way for future licensed veterinarians.
       My mother was a native New Yorker. She came to Medicine Lodge in 1914
     to visit her brother and, while here, served as legal secretary to J.N.
     (Poly) Tincher, the state's outstanding criminal lawyer. She and Doc
     became good friends and in 1916 were married in her parents' home in
     Yonkers, New York. They moved into the house they built on West Second
     Street within the year, and it is still my mother's home. She is probably
     one of the most outstanding converts from "East to West" in this county!
       It was somewhat of a struggle for Dad at first, as many of the farmers
     didn't think it necessary to have a 'licensed vet.' But in a short time,
     due to his integrity, knowledge, and dependability, he was accepted and
     had more business then he could take care of. I recall him telling of
     renting horse and buggy from Johnson's Livery Stable so he could make his
     calls. He often took my mother with him, for, being a native of the
     'civilized world,' she was still not convienced that Indians were not
     lurking about, to attack when one was left alone. What a thrill for them
     both to finally have their very own transportation - a Model T.
       Our family shared the same interests - our love for animals and the
     wonders of the great out doors. Dad loved hunting, fishing and working in
     his beautiful garden. I often accompanied him on calls and was known to
     many as 'Little Doc,' a memory I still cherish. Mother was very active in
     her church and even though poor health prevents her from many activities,
     the church is still an important part of her life.
       During World War II, I married Robert R. Smith, son of one of the first
     families to homestead in Barber County. Bob is a representative for National
     Gypsum Company. We have one son, Robert Serrot Smith, now serving in the
     U.S. Air Force.
       We all think of Barber County as 'home' and the greatest place on earth
     to have "Roots."
                
     Source:Chosen Land - Barber County, Kansas, pg. 409 
     Submitted by: Ruth Serrot Smith