BACKGROUND This historical account reviews the course and lasting impact of Madeline Earle Stanton (1898-1980) in neurosurgery. METHODS The writing of this project was sparked by the discovery of original scientific and bibliographical information about Stanton. It is a thorough review of literature on Stanton and reflects the scope and depth of these prior works. RESULTS Beginning with Madeline Stanton's venture with Dr. Harvey Cushing at Harvard and Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston, this project follows the transformation of her role as Cushing's secretary to the secretary of the Medical Historical Library at Yale. Stanton played an integral role in the development of the Yale Medical Historical Library, becoming the librarian of the Historical Collections and remaining a historical consultant after retirement. Stanton served as an assistant and associate editor for the Journal of the History of Medicine and Allied Sciences. Stanton's work created an access point to valuable medical literature for the furthering of medical education and development. CONCLUSIONS Our article provides glimpses into the personality of Madeline Stanton and her marked impact on neurosurgery.