BIOGRAPHY

Bernátková was born on 22 October 1857 in Čeladná which, at the time of her birth, was part of the Austrian Empire, and became part of Austria-Hungary during her childhood. She lived most of her life in the village of Horní Bečva, Zlín Region.

Working in forestry, Bernátková was married and had nine children, only one of whom survived her. As a centenarian, she moved into a nursing home in Zašová, Czechoslovakia. At the age of 110, she was reported to still be physically and mentally sharp.

Bernátková died on 4 May 1969 at the age of 111 years, 194 days.

RECOGNITION

Bernátková may have become the world’s oldest person following the 14 November 1968 death of 111-year-old Tome Horigome of Japan. However, Horigome’s age has not been validated by LongeviQuest as of 2024.

Bernátková was the first supercentenarian from present-day Czech Republic, and over 55 years after her death, is still the only person from the country to attain the age of 111.

ATTRIBUTION

• Új Szó, 6 February 1968
• Stars and Stripes Europe, 24 October 1968
• Rudé právo, 6 May 1969

GALLERY