The Library
of Alexandria

A character in Pollyanna

Who is Dr. Chilton?

By the Library of Alexandria · 2 minute read · Updated 23 Oct 2026

In short

  • Dr. Chilton is the kind town doctor in Pollyanna, the novel by Eleanor H. Porter.
  • He meets Pollyanna on his rounds and finds an unexpected friend in her.
  • He also has a quiet connection to her aunt, Miss Polly Harrington.

Who Dr. Chilton is

Dr. Chilton is the physician in Beldingsville, the Vermont town where Pollyanna comes to live with her aunt. He is thoughtful and kind, and his rounds bring him into contact with the girl. Their friendship is one of the ties Pollyanna forms as she gets to know the town.

Dr. Chilton and the others in the story

Pollyanna surprises Dr. Chilton, just as she surprises other adults she meets in Beldingsville. He becomes her friend in a town where many people struggle with loneliness.

Dr. Chilton also has a connection to Miss Polly Harrington, Pollyanna's strict and guarded aunt. The story draws out that connection gradually, alongside the friendship between the doctor and the child.

Questions

Who is Dr. Chilton in Pollyanna?

Dr. Chilton is Beldingsville's thoughtful, kind doctor and one of Pollyanna's friends.

How does Dr. Chilton meet Pollyanna?

He meets her while making his rounds and finds her a surprising friend.

Is Dr. Chilton connected to Aunt Polly?

Yes, he has a quiet connection to Miss Polly Harrington that the story gradually explores.

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