Madame du Coudray (1712-1790) was a French midwife who educated peers in rural areas. She was seen as a pioneer of simulation as she developed the first obstetric mannequin, known as 'the machine'. Complex cases could be simulated in a safe environment, which enabled midwives to improve their abilities in managing such deliveries.
Keywords: Historical Figure; inspirational women; obstetric mannequin; simulation.