But the captain’s eyes were on their horses—thoroughbreds, although one carried a pack. Her two sizable boxes, not heavy, were affixed pannierwise, and above them were stores—pots and pans, and hay for the horses.

Those three pioneering pathologists went on to become leaders in building the pathology departments at several universities.

“But the whole appeal of being out there was inextricably linked to the idea there were lawns and leafiness, so being in a big building didn’t feel like the right thing,” Mr. Patrick said.

He tells of his adventures abroad.