EARLY HISTORY OP TBE MEDICAL PROFESSION IN THE COUNTY OF NORFOLK, MASS. AN ADDRESS DELIVERED BEFORE TIIE NQRFOLK DISTRICT MEDICAL SOCIETY, At its Annual Meeting, May 10, 1853. By EBENEZER ALDEN, M.D PRESIDENT OP THE SOCIETY. PUBLISHED BY REQUEST OE THE SOCIETY. FROM THE BOSTON MEDICAL AND SURGICAL JOURNAL. BOSTON: S. K. WHIPPLE & CO......100 WASHINGTON ST. 1853. David Clapp, Printer, Boston. ADDRESS. Fellows of the Norfolk District Medical Society, and Gen- tlemen,—In accordance with your appointment, I have collected and propose now to present some historical notices of the medical profession in the County of Norfolk, particularly in relation to its early history. The recorded materials for such a purpose, especially during the first cen- tury after its settlement, are indeed scanty; and information obtainable from tradition is becoming every day more vague with the lapse of time. I can only say, that I have consulted original documents whenever they were accessible, and have stated nothing as fact which did not appear to be well authenticated. I am aware that it may be said that a physician's time may be more profitably employed, than in searching musty records with the view of exhuming the names and reputation of men, who, however useful in their day, have been too long buried out of sight of the present generation to have any interest awakened either in their characters or success in life. To such a cavil I reply, that every physician is bound to sustain the reputation of his profession by all honorable means; and perhaps in no way, aside from his own virtuous example, can he do this more success- fully than by recording the good deeds and perpetuating the memory of the virtues of those who have preceded him in the same line of pursuit. The life of a physician is at best a monotonous one. His opportuni- ties for social and professional intercourse are infrequent. It is a life of toil, of self-denial—and, with rare exceptions, of inadequate pecuniary compensation. The physician has no time he can properly call his own. Other men engaged in laborious pursuits are permitted to partake of their food without interruption, and to sleep quietly at night. Not so with the physician. For him no season is sacred. He is liable to be called at any hour. The Sabbath, a day of rest to others, is to him but too often a day of incessant toil. In seasons of severe sickness, when the pestilence walketh in darkness and destruction wasteth at noon-day. hi' is especially exposed to danger. If others flee, he is expected to re- 4 main at his post; and it often happens, that after having been honored as the successful instrument of rescuing multitudes from an untimely grave, he himself falls a victim to the destroyer. So fell Samuel Ful- ler, the earliest physician in New England; and so, quite recently in this county, died of ship fever good Dr. Thaxter of Dorchester, and the amiable Wyman of Stoughton. Brethren, let us cherish the memory of such men. As we drop the tear of sympathy over their graves, we can scarcely fail to grow wiser and better. A thought of their sufferings will lighten our own; and should any of us perish, as they did, in the conscientious discharge of duty, it may console us in the hour of our departure to reflect that after our decease we shall " still Zzue," not only in the grateful recollections, but also in the worthy deeds of some, who, emulating our example, may be led by it to practise the virtues they admire. The County of Norfolk embraces, within an area of about four hun- dred miles, one city and twenty-two towns. The number of inhabitants in 1850 was about 79,000, and the density of the population not far from two hundred persons to a square mile. The number of physicians at the same period was about eighty-eight, and' of clergymen eight-nine ; so that it may be said, without great inaccuracy, that each religious so- ciety or parish has its own physician and minister. It must be con- fessed that in almost every community a few individuals may be found who seem indisposed to regard the pious instructions of the one, and quite incapable of estimating the value of the services of the other. One would think that these modern pseudo-reformers imagine themselves to have received a commission to upturn the foundations of society. With such, change in whatever direction is progress. They have more faith in fiction than in fact. Old doctrines they discard because they are old, and new dogmas they receive because they are new; the greater the apparent absurdity of these dogmas, in their view, the more profound their real truth. Nevertheless, as these persons have " method in their madness," they should be allowed the largest liberty consistent with pub- lic safety, and are rather to be won than driven to the adoption of wiser and more consistent opinions. In the early history of the country, the professions of divinity and medicine were frequently found in the hands of the same incumbent. The ministers of that period " practised " as well as preached. Indeed, in all nations in their forming state the two professions have been identi- cal, until, in consequence of the increase of duties demanded, and the necessity of more time and a more careful training required for 5 their successful performance, they are disjoined. The union of the medical and priestly offices was established among the ancient Israel- ites as early as the time of Moses. Perhaps the origin of this union may be thus explained. Disease is an abnormal condition, and in early times was deemed a supernatural infliction on account of moral delin- quency on the part of the suffering individual or others. Hence the question of the disciples to the Saviour—" Master, who did sin, this man or his parents, that he was born blind ?" Sometimes, indeed, disease was a punishment ; as in the case of Miriam, who for her rebellion against Moses was smitten with leprosy ; and of Gehazi, who for his covetousness and falsehood went out from the presence of Elisha " a leper as white as snow." It is not surprising that in a rude age a general principle should have been assumed from a few isolated facts, and so the opinion become common that all diseases are to be considered in the light of a penal infliction. Under such an impression, it was natural that the sick man should apply for relief to his religious teacher ; his first step being to propitiate the Deity. In the case of leprosy, Moses directed the subject to apply to the priest for the examination and cure of his disease ; and on his recovery to make a votive offering at the Temple. Isaiah officiated for Hezekia*h both as prophet and physician; not only predicting his recovery, but prescribing the remedies in the use of which it was to be effected. The Jewish Temple became at length the great hospital of the nation, as well as the central point of its religious rites and worship. In Egypt, also, and in Greece, the custom seems to have been early established of collecting and posting up in temples and other public places an account of medicines used and other appliances made, by which marvellous cures had been effected. In the progress of civilization and with an increase of light, this chaotic mass of materials began to assume form and shape. Medical science was the result. The works of Hip- pocrates embody not only his individual experience, but also the wisdom of preceding ages ; and the famous oath which he was accustomed to administer to all his pupils before they were permitted to assume the responsible duties of their calling, contains a code of medical ethics un- surpassed even in modern times, as a guide to the profession in their in- tercourse with each other and the community.—[See Note A.] Some of the popular medical theories and remedies of ancient times were no doubt sufficiently ludicrous ; but it admits of a question whether the most visionary of them may not find a parallel even in our own boasted age of scientific progress. One of the remarkable remedies of ancient times, the virtues of which 6 seem to have been overlooked by the moderns, was the amethyst worn as a charm. With respect to this precious stone (and precious remedy, too, if it really possessed half the virtues ascribed to it), it takes its name* from the virtue thereof. For " being laid to the umbilicus, it first draws the vapor of the wine to itself, then dispelling the same, and so preserving him that weareth it from drunkenness. Wherefore, this pearl is a great conservative of temperance."! The nearest approach in modem times to the discovery of a real " amethyst," or cure for drunkenness, which has come to my knowledge, was announced in a recent communication to the Boston Natural History Society, as reported in the " Evening Traveller." It appears that a certain physician, resident in Florida, has ascertained by personal expe- riment, that after having " intoxicated himself considerably with bran- dy," he can by swallowing a pill containing a small quantity of the poison of the rattlesnake, Completely neutralize the intoxication ; that on increasing the quantity of brandy until the intoxication becomes " pretty deep," he can, by taking three of the poison pills, not only remove the intoxication, but so reduce the pulse and depress the system that it be- comes necessary, from danger of collapse, to resort quickly to powerful stimulants. In other words, three of the pills produce in this doctor's case a state of sobriety actually alarming. In confirmation of this state- ment, a case was related at the same scientific meeting, of a man in Athens, Ga., who, while lying under a fence in a very intoxicated state, was bitten by a very large and active snake, yet no harm followed to the man, whatever may have happened to the serpent. We have all heard of the notice in former days, " drunk for a penny, dead drunk for two pence, and clean straw for nothing." Who knows that in the march of modern improvement we may not live to see ap>- pended to the bills of fare in some of our fashionable saloons and hotels, in addition to the variety of liquors recommended—" Amethyst pills, a sure preventive of intoxication, will be furnished gratis at the close of the entertainment, to any gentleman who may unfortunately have oc- casion to use them."—[See Note B.] The early history of medicine in Massachusetts is involved in great ob- scurity. The names of but few practitioners, during the first century after its settlement, have come down to us, and of these few we know but little. The title of "doctor" was not often applied in the most ancient records ; and indeed at that early period but few well-educated men devoted themselves exclusively to the cure of the sick. * U/i'iu privative, and vu'lhno to be drunken. t Ancient Comim-nlti! v on lilt Uotlation, |>iinle12. 7 In presenting such facts as I have been able to collect, it will be con- venient to adopt a geographical arrangement of towns, which nearly co- incides with the order of their settlement, rather than an alphabetical one. Omitting, for the present, Cohasset, which is more naturally asso- ciated with Plymouth County than with Norfolk, Weymouth on the east- ern border of the County first claims our attention. WEYMOUTH. Weymouth was the second settlement of white men in New England. Weston's colony, which commenced operations there in 1622, was broken up the following year. The people, in consequence of their excessive improvidence, " fell into great extremity," and before their dispersion were dependent on Plymouth, not only for medical advice, but for sus- tenance also. During the next twenty years, up to the close of the ministry of the Rev. Mr. Newman, who in 1644, with many of his peo- ple, removed to Rehoboth, I have been unable to find the name of any resident physician in the settlement. In that year Rev. Thomas Thacher was inducted into the ministry at Weymouth, where for twenty years he continued, executing the double office of physician and pastor. He pre- viously resided several years in the family and under the tuition of Rev. Charles Chauncey, at Scituate, where he acquired a high reputation as a classical scholar, and also as a proficient in theology and medicine : unlike certain medico-theologians of the present day, who certainly have not succeeded in obtaining the reputation of very profound attainments cither in theology or medicine. After the death of his wife, he resigned his pastorate and removed to Boston, where for several years he preached occasionally, but was chiefly occupied in the discharge of his medical duties. To him, it has been said, belongs the honor of having been the author of the first medical tract ever published in Massachusetts, en- titled—" A Brief Guide to the Common People in the Smallpox and Measles " ; first published in Boston in 1677, and a second edition in 1702. In 1669 he was installed as the first pastor of the Old South Church in Boston. He did not wholly relinquish his medical pursuits, however; for Cotton Mather informs us, that having preached for his father, he visited a sick person after going out of the assembly, whereby he got some harm, which turned into a fever, of which he died October 15, 1678, aged 58. The next physician in Weymouth, of whom any tradition remains, was Dr. Beal. He is said to have resided in the North Parish, near to Hino-ham line. Dr. Richards informs me that he sustained a good repu- tation as a citizen and physician. 8 Dr. Nathaniel White, a native of Weymouth, was born in 1690, and died in 1758. He first settled in the North Parish, but afterwards re- moved to the south part of the town. He was much employed in public business, and his name often appears on the town records. He acquired and sustained a great reputation for skill, and for many years enjoyed a widely-extended practice in Weymouth and the vicinity. Dr. Benjamin Richards, born in 1714, settled in North Weymouth, and had a good reputation and business until his death, which occurred in 1755, at the age of 41. Hon. Cotton Tufts, the immediate successor of the last two named physicians, was born at Medford in 1731 ; graduated at Harvard College in 1749; studied medicine with his brother, Dr. Simon Tufts, who in Medford succeeded to his father's name, reputation and business. Dr. Tufts was esteemed as a well-educated and judicious physician. In early and middle life, he had an extended medical practice. He was one of the original members of the Massachusetts Medical Society, and from 1787 to 1793 its President. He was much in public life ; a finished and well- bred gentleman of the old school, courteous, dignified, never assuming to himself titles or place which did not belong to him, nor shrinking from the performance of any duty to which he was properly called. He pos- sessed a remarkable symmetry of character, which commanded univer- sal respect. Towards the close of life his time was so much engrossed with public trusts, that he was not much occupied in general practice. As long as he was able to go out, however, his counsel was much sought in difficult cases. He was very kind to young men just commencing professional life, as I can testify from personal knowledge, and ever ready, when requested, to open to them the stores of his ample experience. Dr. James Torrey settled in South Weymouth in 1783, and was the only physician there for more than thirty years. He was a native of Connecticut, and practised medicine there and in Nantucket a few years before his residence in Weymouth. He had a fair reputation and busi- ness for that day. Having been a seventh son, it is said that in early life he sometimes so far yielded to the whim of the times as to apply his gift in the cure of scrofula; and when accompanied with the use of the famous Harlaem oil, or " Medicamentum gratia probatum," it was pro- bably not less successful than the " touch " of his royal competitors. However that may have been, in subsequent years he wholly discon- tinued the practice, and left behind him that good name which is " better than precious ointment." He died December 16, 1817, aged 64. Dr. James Lovell, who died in 1820 at the age of 52, was in early life engaged in medical practice in North Weymouth, where he was 9 much esteemed. Soon after 1800 he entirely relinquished medical pursuits. Dr. Noah Fifield was born at East Kingston, N. H., July 22, 1783. He studied medicine under the direction of Dr. William Sanborn, of Fal- mouth, Me., and Dr. Nathan McKinstry, of Newbury, Vt.; attended medical lectures at Cambridge in 1804, and settled as a physician in Weymouth in January, 1806, where he still resides, at the age of 70, in the enjoyment of a competence acquired by unremitting industry and devotion to the interests of his employers. Dr. George Fordyce Fifield, a promising young physician, son of the preceding, a graduate of Harvard College in 1841, after having studied his profession commenced business with his father, but died in 1846, of lumbar abscess, having lived long enough to give promise of extensive usefulness had his life been continued. In South Weymouth, Dr. Appleton Howe, the respected Vice Presi- dent of this Society, established himself soon after the death of Dr. Tor- rey, in 1817, where he continues to reside, with a widely-extended and increasing reputation. Whatever, therefore, may have been the charac- ter of the medical faculty in Weymouth in ancient times, the present generation has been well served. Other physicians, besides those men- tioned, have been residents there, but so recently or for so limited a pe- riod that it does not seem necessary to allude to them by name in this sketch. Braintree originally included within its limits the present towns of Quincy, Braintree and Randolph. It was settled as early as 1624 or 1625, but not incorporated until 1640. Before that period it had been an appendage of Boston ; and for many years afterwards the inhabitants, having been too few to sustain a physician of their own, appear to have been dependent on Boston and the neighboring towns of Roxbury and Dorchester for medical advice in important cases. QUINCY. Dr. John Wilson, son of Dr. Edmund Wilson of London, and grand- son of Rev. John Wilson, first pastor of the First Church in Boston, ap- pears to have been the earliest resident physician in old "Brantry," now Quincy. His domicile was on lands granted by the Town of Boston to their first minister. He was well educated, but not, as some suppose, the graduate at Harvard in 1705. He probably received his medical educa- tion in London. He seems to have sustained an excellent reputation, both as a citizen and a physician. In his time " fever and ague " was a very pre- 2 10 valent disease in his vicinity ; and there is a tradition that he was accustom- ed to remark, that the period would arrive when that disease would disap- pear from this section of the country, and other diseases take its place. Although the precise date of his death has not been ascertained, it pro- bably occurred early in the autumn of 1727, as administration was grant- ed on his estate on the 16th of October of that yeaj-. Dr. Edward Stedman succeeded Dr. Wilson. He married a daughter of Major Lemuel Vassal. Leonard Hoar, M.D., who graduated at Harvard College in 1650, it is said, practised medicine here until his accession to the presidency of the College in 1672. He died at Quincy, Nov. 28, 1675, aged 48. Dr. Henry Turner, who was educated as an apothecary in London, settled in Quincy as early as 1775. He was never extensively engaged in medical practice. He died January 21, 1773, at the age of 84. Dr. Henry Turner, Jun., son of the preceding, was a regularly-edu- cated physician, but died before his father. His widow Abigail, after his decease, married Samuel Bass, in 1757, and they were the parents of the late Capt. Josiah Bass. Dr. Elisha Savil (Harvard College, 1743) was a reputable physician, and from an examination of his ledger, loaned to me by one of his de- scendants, I find that he had an extended business from 1750 to 1768, not only in Quincy, but also in Milton and in the middle and south precincts of old Braintree. He died at the early age of 44, April 30, 1768, of lung fever, made fatal by exposure in visiting a patient after the accession of the disease. Dr. Ebenezer Crosby, a native of Quincy, who graduated at Harvard College in 1777, it is said practised medicine for a short period in the place of his nativity. Of this there may be some doubt. Dr. Thacher (Medical Biography, i., 57), says that he completed his medical educa- tion at the University of Pennsylvania ; that he was at an early period of the Revolutionary war appointed surgeon to General Washington's guard, and was received into his military family, in which he continued until near the close of the war. He afterwards settled in New York, where he acquired a reputable practice and was much esteemed. In 1785, he was elected a Professor in Columbia College, which appoint- ment he retained until his death, July 16, 1788. Dr. Thomas Phipps was a native of Brighton. He graduated at Har- vard College in 1757 ; went to Quincy in 1768, immediately after the death of Dr. Savil, and for many years enjoyed a lucrative and extend- ed business. He was esteemed as a worthy man and good physician. Towards the close of his life, which terminated November, 4, 1817, at II the age of 80, he became entirely deaf, which materially impaired his usefulness. Dr. Ebenezer Brackett, son of Mr. James Brackett, was born at Quincy, in 1773. He graduated at Dartmouth College in 1791 ; studied medicine, and commenced business with fair prospects of success, but fell a victim to pulmonary disease in 1794. Dr. Thomas Phipps, Jun., studied medicine with his father, and was for a time associated with him in business. He was held in high repute by his patients. His death occurred August 30, 1832. On that day he left his house apparently in his usual, although not confirmed, health. He had proceeded but a few rods, when he fell and instantly expired, at the age of 46. Dr. Benjamin Vinton, born October 14, 1774 ; graduated at Harvard College in 1796, and settled iu Quincy in 1801, having previously offi- ciated for a time as surgeon's mate in a vessel of war. He had a good reputation as a physician, and as such acquired a fair share of business. In 1813 he fell a victim to a disease of the urinary organs, probably Blight's disease, leaving a widow, who still survives, and three daughters, all of whom have since died of consumption. Dr. Ebenezer Woodward (Dartmouth 1817; M.D. Harvard 1823) settled in Quincy immediately after receiving his medical degree, and from that period to the present has rarely been absent from his circle of business. BRAINTREE. The present town of Braintree was originally the middle precinct of the old town of the same name. Although incorporated in 1707, it had no resident physician until 1779. Dr. Daniel Fogg, a native of New Hampshire, and a medical pupil of Dr. Thomas Kittredge of Andover, in that year took up his residence in Braintree. He was a worthy man and a good physician. Having been reserved in his manners, and for many years exceedingly deaf, his business was very much confined to the vicinity in which he lived. He died suddenly, in 1830, of disease of the heart, while walking in his gar- den, aged 71. Dr. Ebenezer Thayer, a native of Braintree, settled at the Iron-works near Weymouth in 1800, but within five years died of fever, at the age of 30. Dr. Joseph Bossuet resided for a time in the same neighborhood. He was a French physician, well educated, and had for a time resided in the West Indies. He had a good reputation as a surgeon. His lack of self-control prevented him from acquiring in this country an extended 12 business. He performed in Braintree one operation, which gave him some notoriety, having removed from the urinary bladder a calculus of considerable size, and with it the remains of an extra-uterine foetus. The patient recovered and survived many years, and before her death presented the carefully-preserved bones and other remains to Dr. H. I. Bowditch, of Boston, and through him to the Boston Society for Medical Improvement. Dr. Jonathan Wild is a native of Braintree ; graduated at Harvard College in 1804 ; was a medical pupil of Dr. Ebenezer Alden, of Ran- dolph, and resided there a few years after the death of his instructer. In 1813, however, he returned to his native town, and has been the prin- cipal physician there for the last thirty years. RANDOLPH. Dr. Moses Baker, a friend and probably fellow pupil of Dr. Benjamin Church, of Boston, settled in the " New South Precinct of Braintree," now Randolph, about the year 1755, and had a good share of business in that and the neighboring parishes until his death, which occurred De- cember 10, 1781. Dr. Ephraim Wales was the second physician in Randolph. He gra- duated at Harvard College in 1768, was a medical pupil of Dr. Amos Putnam of Danvers, and settled in this his native parish as early as 1770. He was well educated, was the instructer of numerous pupils, and had a large circle of practice. His youngest son, bearing the same name, after his father's death, which occurred April 7, 1805, at the age of 59, pur- sued his profession, and is still a resident on the site of the old family mansion. Dr. Ebenezer Alden, a descendant of the Pilgrim John Alden who came to Plymouth in the May Flower in 1620, was a native of Stafford, Ct., where he was born July 4, 1755. Having completed his medical education in his native State, he was invited to settle in Randolph on the death of Dr. Baker; and from 1781 to the time of his own death, which occurred October 16, 1806, he sustained there and in the neigh- boring towns an unblemished reputation, and received his full share of medical patronage. His pastor, Rev. Jonathan Strong, in a tribute to his memory after his decease, thus speaks of him.—" The duties of his profession he discharged with reputation to himself, and with great useful- ness to his employers. His circle of business, although small at first, gradually increased until it became very extensive. As a physician he was remarkably attentive, prudent, and successful. During the latter part of his life, his advice was sought and much respycted by his breth- 13 ren of the faculty in his vicinity. No physician in this part of the coun- try possessed the love and confidence of his patients to a higher degree. This was evident from the universal sorrow occasioned among them by his death." Dr. Jonathan Wales, a medical pupil of Drs. E. Wales and N. Miller, was a native of Randolph, and a physician there for forty years preceding his death, which occurred in 1843, at the age of 65. He was ardently de- voted to his profession, and actively engaged in its duties ; was much em- ployed in town affairs and in the concerns of the religious society of which he was a member. He obtained the confidence of his patients in an emi- nent degree, and was often called on in surgical as well as in medical cases. In 1824 he received the degree of A.M. at Middlebury College, and that of M .D. at Waterville in 1832. His son, Dr. B. L. Wales, who graduated at Middlebury College in 1824, and M.D. at Harvard in 1828, was after- wards associated in business with his father while he lived, but since his death has relinquished medical pursuits for more congenial and lucrative employments. Dr. Ebenezer Alden, son of the former physician in this town of the same name, graduated at Harvard College in 1808; was a medical pu- pil of Dr. Nathan Smith, at Hanover, N. H., where he received the de- gree of M.B. in 1811. He was afterwards for some months a resident in Philadelphia, in attendance upon medical lectures and practice in that city, where he received, in 1812, the degree of M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania; since which period he has resided at Randolph. Other physicians, who have commenced business there more recently, are now resident in that town, enjoying a well-earned patronage. DORCHESTER. Dorchester, which was settled in 1631, originally embraced within its limits not only the present town of that name, but also Milton, Canton, Stoughton, Sharon and Foxborough. Johnson, in his " Wonder-working Providence," thus quaintly describes it. " The forme of this Towne is almost like a serpent, turning her head to the northward over against Tompson's Island and the Castle; her body and wings being chiefly built on are filled somewhat thick of houses, only that one of her wings is dipt; her tayle being of such large extent that she can hardly draw it after her."—Wonder-working Providence, 1st Ed., 4to, p. 41. I find no account of any resident physician in Dorchester at a very early period. Much sickness prevailed there, as well as at Salem and Charles- town, in 1630 and the two following years. Dr. Samuel Fuller of Plymouth, writing to Gov. Bradford, June 28, 1630, says—" I have been It to Mattapan at the request of Mr. Warham, and let some twenty of these people blood."—(History of Dorchester, p. 22.) This sickness was probably similar to that which prevailed in Plymouth, of which Morton says—" it was a kind of pestilential fever," of which upwards of twenty persons died in Plymouth ; and that it was also very fatal to the Indians in the vicinity. At the same time the Indians near Charlestown were severely afflicted with smallpox, Mr. Maverick having buried above thirty of them at Winnesimmet in one day, as Wnithrop assures us. Dr. Elijah Danforth was one of the earliest physicians in Dorchester, and had his residence near the old burying ground. Dr. Harris sup- poses that he resided for a time at Castle Island. It is probable that at one period he was at Roxbury also ; for Dr. Boylston, in his " Ac- count of the Smallpox inoculated in New England " (p. 31), says that on the 8th of December, 1721, he inoculated at Roxbury among others Dr. Elijah Danforth, aged 35; and that the doctor, in consequence of the cold weather, had a tumor in the axilla which came to suppuration. He graduated at Harvard College in 1703, and died in Dorchester in 1736, at the age of 50, leaving a real estate of the value of £2000, be- sides a handsome personal estate. Dr. William Holden commenced business in Dorchester soon after the death of Dr. Danforth. There is reason to suppose that he was pre- viously at Bridgewater; a Dr. William Holden having buried a daughter Hannah there in 1738, and removed soon after. He was a native of Cambridge, born 4th March, 1713, and died March 30, 1776, aged 63. Dr. Phinehas Holden, son of Dr. William, was born January 31, 1744. He studied medicine with his father, and continued in the practice of it at Dorchester until his death in 1819. Dr. James Baker, who was born Sept 5, 1739, and graduated at Har- vard College in 1760, studied divinity and was for some time a preacher. He then studied medicine, and practised a few years until about 1780, when he relinquished the profession for other pursuits. Dr. Joseph Gardner died in Dorchester in 1809, aged 28. Eleazer Clapp, M.D., who graduated at Harvard College in 1807, was a pupil of Dr. J. Warren. He opened an office in Boston, and commenced the duties of his profession with fair prospects of success. But he soon became melancholy, and having a predisposition to insanity, returned to his native town, where in a fit of mental depression he com- mitted suicide, Aug. 27, 1817, at the age of 31. His mother, filled with grief at the occurrence, followed him five days afterwards by the same means. Dr. Thomas Danforth, son of the celebrated Dr. Samuel Danforth of 15 Boston, received a good education, but having wealthy relatives was not specially devoted to the interests of his profession. For about two years he had his residence in Dorchester; not with a view of engaging in medical pursuits, however, although he was sometimes requested to pre- scribe for his neighbors. " Having taken a sudden cold, which produced excitement of the brain," he rose from his bed on the night of July 13,1817, procured a light, and, placing himself before a looking-glass, deliberately opened the carotid artery; when he threw himself again upon the bed, and soon expired. His death may have been the exciting cause of that of Dr. Clapp, which occurred the following month. Dr. Samuel Mulliken was a native of Lexington. He graduated at Harvard College in 1819, and settled as a physician in Dorchester. For some time his circle of practice was quite limited. But at length, re- moving to the south part of the town, he acquired business and a good reputation, which he retained until his death, which occurred Feb. 20, 1843, at the age of 52. The immediate occasion of his death was the introduction of virus into his system through a slight wound received in dissecting a gangrenous subject. Dr. Robert Thaxter was a native of Hingham, where he was born October 21, 1776. He graduated at Harvard College in 1798. Hav- ing studied medicine with his father, Dr. Thomas Thaxter, he was for a time associated with him in business at Hingham. In 1809 he settled at Dorchester, and from that period until his death, which occurred from " ship fever " Feb. 9,1852, he enjoyed a wide circle of medical and surgi- cal practice, and an enviable reputation as a physician and citizen. For more than thirty years he was not detained from his business a single day by sickness, nor did he spend a night out of town during the same period, except on professional duty. He was a man of noble, self-sacri- ficing spirit. It was only necessary for him to know that his services were needed. He inquired not whether the sufferer was a native citizen or a foreigner; whether he had ability to make any pecuniary compen- sation, or otherwise ; whether his malady was mild or malignant. At the first summons, by night or by day, he hastened to his relief. Al- though his own life might be the forfeit, he deserted not his post in the hour of danger. " His profession was his life," says his pastor, Rev. Dr. Hall, in a highly appropriate tribute to his memory, on the Sabbath succeeding his death. He adds, " May it not have been kindly ordered —kindly for him—that the mortal arrow by which he fell should have been received in the conscientious discharge of its functions." " His last sickness was contracted by faithful attendance on the family of a poor emigrant." 16 MILTON. Milton was incorporated, in 1662. Rev. Peter Thacher, its first minis- ter and physician, was born in 1651, graduated at Harvard College in 1671, and died Dec. 17, 1727, aged 77. He was the son of Rev. Thomas Thacher of Weymouth and Boston. Soon after his gradua- tion he went to England, where he remained several years. Like his father, he was well skilled in medicine as well as in theology ; and he ex- pended no inconsiderable portion of his annual salary in providing wnedi- cines for the indigent and sick. He acquired such a knowledge of the Indian language, as enabled him, in their own tongue, to preach to the natives, who were numerous in his vicinity; and at the same time he was accustomed to prescribe for their physical maladies. Cotton Mather (Mag. i., 428, 2d ed.) says—" It is well known that, until two hundred years ago, physic in England was no profession distinct from divinity " ; and elsewhere he adds—" Ever since the days of Luke the Evangelist, skill in physic has been frequently professed and practised by persons whose most declared business was the study of divinity. But I suppose that the greatest frequency of this angelical conjunction has been seen in these parts of America, where they are mostly the poor to whom the gospel is preached by pastors whose compassion to them in their poverty invites them to supply the want of abler physicians." " Such a univer- sally serviceable pastor was our Thacher." This was indeed a tribute of the learned author to the father, but equally applicable to the son and to many other worthy pioneer ministers of New England, It was neither want of success in their appropriate calling; nor a desire for the emolu- ments of a double office ; nor an overweening self-esteem ; nor any other unworthy motive, which led these early ministers to add to their theologi- cal stores some knowledge of medicine. It was rather a desire to ad- minister to the necessities and alleviate the pains of those who from poverty and distance were unable to avail themselves of more efficient aid. The professions of theology and medicine are natural allies. Those who practise them can and should be mutual helpers ; and when minis- ters so forget the dignity of their calling as to be carried away by the newest and most popular medical delusion, to the neglect of the well- informed and regularly-educated physicians of their own parishes, they act as unwisely as the physician who adopts the vagaries of the wildest theological fanatic, as a substitute for the teachings of the sober and well-instructed ministers of religion. After the death of Rev. Mr. Thacher, the medical business of the town was divided for nearly half a century among physicians in the vicinity. n Dr. Samuel Gardner, son of Rev. John Gardner of Stow, gradu- ated at Harvard College in 1746, and settled on Milton Hill as early as 1753. On the 22d May, 1766, he married Mary, daughter of Rev. Dr. William Cooper, and grand-daughter of William Foye, a gentleman of standing and fortune in Milton. He was considered a respectable physician, and, it is supposed, died in 1777. Dr. Enos Sumner was born in 1746, and was in business as a physi- cian in the central part of Milton, from about 1768 to nearly the close of his life, which terminated June 8, 1796. Dr. Benjamin Turner, a native of Randolph, graduated at Harvard College in 1791, and after having completed his medical education had his residence in the south part of Milton, and was for some years en- gaged in medical practice. He then removed to Framingham, and from that time until his death, which occurred in 1831, he was devoted to ag- ricultural pursuits. Dr. Amos Holbrook was a native of Bellingham, had his residence in Milton, at first in the village, afterwards upon Milton Hill, and was one of the most eminent medical men in the County during the whole pe- riod in which he lived. He had not the advantage of a collegiate edu- cation; but this infelicity was more than compensated by the experience he acquired in the service of his country, as an army surgeon, and by his subsequent residence for several months in France, where his time was profitably occupied "in witnessing the practice of the hospitals, and thus adding to his stores of practical knowledge." Endowed by nature with an elegant person, he added to it a courteousness of address and suavity of manners which won him favor in whatever circle he moved. He was beloved as a physician and citizen, and sustained his popularity undiminished to the close of a long life. For many years he engrossed the principal medical business of Dorchester as well as Milton. He died June 17, 1842, at the advanced age of 88. A very just sketch of his character, by his friend and pupil Dr. Thad- deus W. Harris, was published in the Boston Courier soon after his death, and thence copied into the Boston Medical and Surgical Journal of July 13, 1S42, and subsequently by Dr. Williams into his Medical Biography. Dr. Samuel Kinsley Glover, a native of Milton, was born in 1753. He entered Harvard College, but before the time of his graduation arrived, the Revolution having broken out, instruction in the College was suspend- ed ; his classical studies were relinquished, and he soon joined the army as surgeon's mate. In that capacity and as surgeon of several armed vessels, he continued until 1778. In that year, among other duties he had charge of a smallpox hospital on Prospect Hill, where Burgoyne's 3 18 troops were stationed as prisoners of war. In 1780 he relinquished mili- tary life, and settled in Milton. From that time also he discontinued the practice of medicine and surgery, except that for a time he devoted some attention to a private smallpox hospital. He received a pension from government, was called to fill several stations in public life, and died July 1, 1839, aged 86. Dr. Thaddeus William Harris, son of the Rev. T. M. Harris, D.D., of Dorchester, graduated at Harvard College in 1815, and settled at Milton in 1820 ; where, and in his native town of Dorchester, he acquired the reputation of an excellent physician, as well as a distinguished naturalist. After about ten years it became necessary for him to relinquish the active duties of his profession, as too laborious for his constitution, and he was elected to, and accepted the office of Librarian to the University, a post which he has since continued to occupy, to the entire satisfaction of its guardians and the public. Dr. Thomas Kittredge was for a few years in Milton, where he died July 27, 1845, aged 33. Dr. Charles R. Kennedy, a native of Milton, and graduate of Har- vard College in 1826, studied medicine at Randolph, and settled in his native town ; but not finding the practice of his profession congenial either to his feelings or his health, he relinquished it for other pursuits. He became consumptive, and died at St. Augustine in 1836. He was an excellent citizen and much respected. CANTON. Canton, formerly known as Dorchester village, was settled, and a church organized in it, as early as 1717. Dr. Belcher was the earliest resident physician ; and tradition has made us better acquainted with his skill in athletic exercises than in professional pursuits. His minister, Rev. Samuel Dunbar, had in his day a great reputation as a mighty wrestler, as well as divine. It is said that although neither the clergyman nor physician was disposed to com- promit the dignity of his calling by a public trial of skill, they sometimes retired to a lone spot in the forest, and there, far removed from the public gaze, renewed the sports of their youth. Dr. George Crossman was the successor of Dr. Belcher. He was many years Town Clerk of Stoughton, before its separation from Canton. He had a good reputation as a physician, and died Sept. 25, 1805, aged 68. Dr. Samuel Searle, a pupil of Dr. Moses Baker of Randolph, settled as a physician in Canton about the year 1780. After a few years he removed, first to Royalston, then to Canada, where he died, 19 Dr. Jonathan Stone, a native of Framingham, settled as a physician in Canton about the year J 812 ; and continued to reside there in full practice, and much respected, for more than thirty years. He was a worthy Fellow of the Massachusetts Medical Society. In 1842 he re- moved to Belleville, 111., where he is supposed to be still living. Dr. Moses Baker, a native of Randolph, and son of the physician there of the same name, was in Canton several years, but removed, and finally went to Monmouth, Me., where, it is understood, he died about twenty years ago. Dr. Phineas M. Crane, son of Gen. Elijah Crane, after having com- pleted his medical studies, in 1828 settled in his native town, but soon removed to East Boston, his present residence. STOUGHTON. The present town of Stoughton was incorporated as a parish in 1744. Dr. Nathan Bucknam was the first physician. He was probably a son of Rev. Nathan Bucknam, Harvard College 1721. He married a Holmes ; died young, and but little is known respecting him. It is said that a Dr. Pope formerly resided in Stoughton, near to Easton—respecting whom, the only remaining tradition is that he re- fused medical fees for services rendered on the Sabbath. Dr. Peter Adams, a native of Stoughton, was son of Rev. Jedediah Adams, Harvard College 1733. He graduated at Harvard College in 1773; was a medical pupil of Dr. Crossman and Dr. E. Wales; and from about 1780 to the time of his death in 1832, was the principal physician of the town. He died at the age of 76, universally respected. Dr. Simeon Tucker, a native of Canton, and for a short time a practi- tioner there, who graduated at Brown University in 1821, and at Harvard College M.D. in 1824, succeeded Dr. Adams, and is still a resident in Stoughton in successful practice. Dr. Charles F. Wyman, a very promising young physician, became associated in business with Dr. Tucker, but having unfortunately con- tracted " ship fever " in the discharge of professional duty, died of the disease April 30, 1851, at the early age of 27 years. He was universally respected, and his untimely death greatly lamented. SHARON. Sharon was incorporated as a town in 1765. Dr. Lemuel Hewins, a pupil of Dr. Nathaniel White, of Weymouth, whose daughter he married, was probably the first physician there. In early life he had some business, which soon declined, his personal habits being unfavorable to success. 20 Dr. Elijah Hewins was a pupil of Dr. Young, of Boston, and a sur- geon in the Revolutionary army, attached to Col. Jacob Gill's regiment. He had in Sharon, Foxborough, and Walpole an extensive practice for twenty years after the close of the war. He sustained the reputation of an upright man and good physician. His death occurred in 1827, at the age of 80; but some years previously, in consequence of a shock of palsy, he had wholly retired from practice. Dr. Daniel Stone, who graduated at Harvard College in 1797, and was a medical pupil of Dr. Willard, of Uxbridge, was the next physi- cian. He commenced business in Sharon, in 1800, and continued there in successful practice for more than forty years, enjoying a well-earned reputation as a physician and citizen. From the commencement of his medical life he was on principle a total abstinent from the use of all in- toxicating liquors. He was social in his habits, hospitable, a pleasant companion and a fast friend. He was thrice married, and left a widow with several children to mourn his loss. His death occurred very sud- denly, August 27th, 1842, in consequence of the ulceration and rupture of a hernial appendix to the ileum, somewhat resembling the appendix vermiformis. FOXBOROUGH. Foxborough constituted originally the caudal extremity of that " ser- pent that turned her head northward over against Tompson's Island and the Castle." It was incorporated in 1778. Dr. Joshua Wood appears to have been the earliest resident physician. He was a native of Sharon, a medical pupil of Dr. Elijah Hewins, and had a good reputation as a physician and citizen. He died of pulmonary disease, in 1799, at the age of 47. Dr. Spencer Pratt, a medical pupil of Dr. Wood, succeeded him, and was for a time successful in acquiring business. He afterwards removed to Franklin, where he died. Dr. Aaron Everett died in 1807, aged 25. Dr. William Payson came from Walpole ; was a resident in Foxbo- rough ; married a daughter of Samuel Warren, Esq., and for several years was the principal physician. He then removed. Dr.-------Kingsbury, was a resident here for a short period, but died at an early age. Dr.-------Talbot was here for a time, and then removed. Dr. Gardner M. Peck received the degree of M.D. at Brown Univer- sity in 1821, settled in Foxborough, and for some years had a wide cir- cle of practice. He then removed to New York, and it is understood relinquished medicine as a profession for more profitable pursuits. 21 DEDHAM. Dedham was incorporated in 1636, and originally embraced within its limits the present towns of Dedham, Medfield, Medway, Walpole, Wren- tham, Franklin, Bellingham, Needham, Dover, Natick, and a part of Sherborn. Rev. John Allin, who was settled in 1639, was the first pastor. He had a son Daniel, born in 1656, who graduated at Harvard College in 1675, and was a physician. He was for a time a resident in Boston, and also Librarian to the College, and may have occasionally prescribed for the sick in his native village. He died in 1692. Dr. William Avery was the earliest educated physician who is known to have taken up his residence in Dedham. He came from England to Boston in 1650; with his wife Mary, and children Mary, William, and Robert. At what period he removed to Dedham, and how long he con- tinued there, is uncertain. In 1680 he had returned to Boston ; for in that year he gave £60 to the town of Dedham, describing himself in the deed of gift as of Boston, but sometimes of Dedham. In Judge Samuel Sewall's diary, it is recorded, that he died in Boston, March 18, 1686. His age was 65. A small grave-stone, in the Chapel Burying Ground, marks the place of his interment. He appears to have been well edu- cated ; a man of benevolence ; and especially a patron of learning. I have found no evidence that he left a will, but it is known that in his life-time he made liberal donations to various public charities, among which wras one to the College at Cambridge. Dr. Jonathan Avery, son of Dr. William, was born in Boston, it is said, in 1651. This may be a mistake. In his will, dated May, 1691, he de- scribes himself as a resident in Dedham ; practitioner in physick, aged about 35 years. His inventory is dated the same month. He left a wife Sybil, and three daughters. There is, among his descendants, a tradition that, being a believer in alchemy, he devoted some of his leisure hours to chemical studies ; and that near the place of his former residence, heaps of cinders still remain, the product of his labors. It may be so. But to me it appears quite as probable, that the aforesaid cinders were the product of his brother Robert's blacksmith shop. Dr. Joseph Richards was born in Dedham April 18, 1701; graduated at Harvard College in 1721; studied medicine as a profession, and set- tled in his native town. He was a military officer, a magistrate, and a man of respectability ; but I cannot learn that he was ever extensively engaged in medical pursuits. He died Feb. 25, 1761, aged 60. Dr. Nathaniel Ames, a native of Bridgewater, and descendant of Wil- 22 Ham Ames, of Braintree, settled as a physician in Dedham in 1732. He was a shrewd, observing man, endowed with talents much beyond mediocrity; a man of strong passions and a determined will. He was much respected ; was often employed in public affairs ; and was found equal to every trust committed to him. In early life he devoted much attention to astronomical studies. In 1725 he commenced the publication of an almanac, which was continu- ed annually while he lived. This publication contained upon its cover a picture of the signs of the zodiac, rather conspicuously displayed, and secured for him among the credulous a great reputation as an astrolo- ger as well as physician. If he did not openly profess skill in judicial astrology, he was not the man to disclaim the possession of such skill, when it was imputed to him by the superstition of others. On the birth of his second son, the Hon. Fisher Ames, in reply to the inquiries of a good lady as to the future destiny of the child, after a moment of ap- parently deep thought, he gravely said—" If he lives, that child will be the third ruler in the kingdom." Truant boys stood in great fear of him, having the impression that he could infallibly detect their roguery. On one occasion, his skill in this line was subjected to a severe test, yet without loss to his reputation. A neighboring hen-roost had been fre- quently robbed, yet the culprit had as often escaped detection. At length an appeal was made to the art of the astrologer. One evening, when the signs in the heavens were favorable, the boys, and among them the suspected urchin, were assembled in a dark room. The great family dinner pot was placed upon a table in its centre. All the boys were required to form a ring and march silently round this pot; and each one, on arriving at a given point, to touch it with his finger ; it being understood that " old chanticleer," who was represented to be within, would respond to the touch of the robber by crowing most lustily. On completing the circle, there was no response ; yet the shrewd astrologer, calling for a light, discovered that the digital extremities of one boy gave no evidence of contact with the enchanted pot; and he, being forth- with pronounced the culprit, made immediate confession of his guilt, and thus the worthy astrologer's fame was fully sustained. Dr. Ames possessed a great fund of common sense, as well as quiet humor, and was usually found ready for any emergency. Worthington, in his History of Dedham, relates an anecdote illustrative of these traits in his character. It is substantially as follows :—His first wife dying soon after the birth of her first child, and the child itself shortly after its mother, he claimed, that, as heir of his child, he was entitled to cer- tain lands which had descended to her from the Fisher family. These 23 lands, on her decease, having descended to her child, the question arose, whether they should ascend to the father, as heir-at-law of his child, contrary to the rule of common law. The Supreme Court, two judges dissenting, decided that they did so ascend. Dr. Ames, although suc- cessful in his suit, expressed his dislike at the conduct of the dissenting judges, one of whom was Chief Justice Dudley, " by causing the whole Court to be painted on the large sign-board of his tavern, sitting in great state in their large wigs, each judge being clearly recognized. An open book was before them, underneath which was written, ' Province Laws.' The dissenting judges were represented with their backs turned towards the book. The Court, hearing of the sign, sent the Sheriff to bring it before them." The doctor, fortunately for himself, became apprised of the order just in time to remove the obnoxious sign before the sheriff's arrival. Dr. Ames was born July 22, 1708, and died July 11, 1764, aged 56. Dr. Nathaniel Ames, son of the preceding, was born at Dedham in 1740; graduated at Harvard College 1761; and commenced the prac- tice of medicine in his native town as early as 1764 or 1765. He was considered a judicious physician ; but owing to certain eccentricities of character, and to his fondness for political strife, he never acquired a large circle of business. He had some reputation as a scholar, and continued the almanac which his father had commenced some little time after his death. He died July 22, 1822, aged 81. Dr. Seth Ames, brother of Dr. Nathaniel, Jr., was born in 1743 ; graduated at Harvard College 1764, and was a surgeon in Col. Read's regiment of the Revolutionary army. He was for a time settled in Am- herst, N. H., where he was much respected. On the failure of his health he returned to Dedham, and died there January 1, 1778. Dr. John Sprague was a distinguished physician in Dedham, and long enjoyed an extensive and lucrative practice. He was born in 17i3; graduated at Harvard College in 1737 ; was a pupil of the celebrated French physician, Dr. Louis Dal Honde, whose daughter he married. He commenced business in Boston, and there continued to reside until after the death of his first wife. He then married Mrs. Esther Harrison, widow of Charles Harrison, Esq., a lady of fortune, and removed to Dedham, where he continued until his death in 1797, at the age of 84. Dr. Sprague received a good medical education ; was endowed with more than a common share of " natural acumen " ; and being a very careful observer of morbid phenomena became eminent among his breth- 24 ren for his skill in diagnosis.* He possessed the unbounded confidence of his patients. "Unto him men gave ear and waited and kept silence at his counsel." He was eminently successful in acquiring and retain- ing business ; and, it has been said, not over-scrupulous in exacting a substantial remuneration for his services. He acquired a princely for- tune ; but it is proper to add, that one of his relatives has assured me, that this wealth was obtained more from the rise of soldiers' claims, which he largely purchased, than from the emoluments of his profession. Dr. Joseph Sprague, Jr., was son of the preceding. After his gra- duation in 1772, he studied medicine, partly under the direction of his father, but chiefly in Europe. He resided for a time in Milton, then in Boston, afterwards in Dedham, where he died April 17, 1800, aged 48. His tastes and education were not exactly suited to medical pursuits, and he was never actively engaged in the duties of his profession. Dr. Jesse Wheaton came from Rhode Island. He was a very worthy man, but received only a limited medical education. In the early part of the present century he had considerable medical business in Dedham, but soon relinquished it for other pursuits. For many years he kept an apothecary's shop in Dedham, and was much respected as a citizen. He died in 1847, aged 84. Dr. Simeon B. Carpenter, the son of a physician in Rhode Island or the vicinity, graduated at Brown University in 1827, and M.D. at Har- vard College in 1830. He settled in Dedham, acquired a good reputa- tion and a fair share of medical business, which he retained until his death in 1843, at the age of 42. * As an instance of the doctor's tact in this line, the following well-authenticated and amusing anecdote may be mentioned. It seemed that his fame had extended beyond the limits of his County. A good woman in the western part of the State, desired to consult him in behalf of her husband, who had received some injury; and, that there might be no collusion, she determined herself to make the journey and see the doctor in person. Accordingly, having provided herself with a phial of the fluid by which his skill was to be tested, she set off on her errand of mercy. On her arrival at Dedham, she espied a man at work in front of a respectable looking house, and inquired if he could inform her where the famous Dr. Sprague lived ; adding, that her hus- band had fallen down stairs, and that she had come to see if the doctor knew as much as people pretended. It happened that the house was the residence of the veritable doctor himself; and that, unperceived, he had overheard the conversation. After the worthy lady had been permitted to wait awhile, the doctor at length appeared ; and waving ceremony, she thus accosted him. " Doctor, I have brought some of my husband's water, and I want you to tell me what is the matter with him; and if you can do that, I shall believe you can cure him." The doctor, after due examination, replied, " Madam, I should think that your husband has received an injury by falling down stairs." "I never! "—exclaimed the woman. "But—doctor—how many flights of stairs 1" This question had not been anticipated, and he answered at random, " Two, madam." '• Ah, doctor," she said, " it was three—from garret to cellar."—" But, madam," responded the doctor, " did you bring all the water 1" "I confess I did not." " Then, madam, you have left one flight of stairs at home." She was perfectly satisfied, and went away astonished at a mani- festation of wisdom quite beyond her power of comprehension. 25 Jeremy Stimson, our late President, is a native of Hopkinton, and son of a physician of the same name. He graduated at Harvard College in 1804, settled in Dedham in 1807, and soon acquired and for forty-five years has sustained the reputation of a scientific and judicious medical adviser. In him the " suaviter " and " fortiter " are so happily blended, that his services are as much in requisition as ever ; and being in the enjoyment of good health, there is a fair prospect that he may serve his gene- ration for years to come in the line of his favorite pursuits. Dr. Danforth Phipps Wight was the son of Rev. Ebenezer Wight, formerly pastor of the Hollis-street Church in Boston. He was born at Dedham, February 8, 1792 ; graduated at Harvard College in 1815, and M.D. in 1819. He commenced business at Sandwich, but has for some years resided in his native town, where he is universally respected. In South Dedham Dr. Philip Draper, Harvard College 1780, is supposed to have been the earliest resident physician. His time was not exclu- sively devoted to medical pursuits. At one period he was engaged in teaching; and for a time resided in Dorchester. He died in 1817, aged 60. Dr. Ephraim French, a native of Randolph, went to South Dedham in 1814, but died the same year of a pulmonary complaint. Dr. Elisha Thayer, author of Thayer's Memorial, succeeded him, and remained a few years. He then removed to Dedham Centre, where for many years his time has been chiefly occupied with his duties as Postmaster. Dr. John Kingsbury Briggs was the son of Rev. Ephraim Briggs, of Halifax. He studied medicine under the direction of Dr. Arad Thomp- son of Middleborough, and Dr. William Ingalls of Boston. In 1820, he received the degree of M.D. at Brown University. He settled in South Dedham soon after his graduation, and there for more than twenty years had the reputation of a worthy and successful physician. He was, for a considerable period, the subject of occasional pulmonary hemor- rhage, which finally resulted in fatal disease, terminating his life Decem- ber 26, 1843, at the age of 49. In West Dedham, with the exception of Dr. Francis Howe, the pre- sent incumbent, it is believed that no physician has ever taken up a per- manent residence. He is a native of Framingham, born in 1787, studied medicine with Dr. John B. Kittredge, with whom he was for a time as- sociated. In 1814 he took up his residence in West Dedham, and has continued there to the present time. 4 26 DOVER. Dover, originally a part of Dedham, was incorporated in 1784. The only physician who has resided in Dover for any length of time, so far as I have been informed, was Dr. George Caryl. Dr. C. was a native of Dover. His father was Rev. Benjamin Caryl/ and his mother Sarah Kollock, widow of Dr. Cornelius Kollock formerly of Wrentham. He was born in 1767 ; graduated at Harvard College in 1788; studied medicine with Dr. Samuel Willard, of Uxbridge ; settled as a physician in Dover in 1791 or 1792, where he died August 9, 1829- aged 62. MEDFIELD. Medfield was incorporated January 1, 1650. Rev. John Wilson, who graduated in 1642, in the first class in Har- vard College, was installed pastor in Medfield in 1651, and united in himself the triple office of school-master, preacher, and physician. He died August 23, 1691, aged 70, having preached all day on the Sabbath preceding his death. Dr. Joseph Baxter, son of Rev. Joseph Baxter the second minister of Medfield, graduated at Harvard College in 1724. He studied medicine, and died of smallpox, but the time and place of his death I have not ascertained. Dr. James Jerauld came from France. He settled in the easterly part of Medfield, before 1733, and had a large landed estate there, which he cultivated with slave labor. He was for many years extensively and * successfully engaged in the practice of medicine, and died October 25, 1760. Dr. James Jerauld, 2d, was nephew of the preceding; was adopted as a son and educated by him, and settled in the same place. He be- came eminent in his profession. He was some time in public life, having been elected a delegate to the Massachusetts Convention for forming a constitution in 1779. He married an Arnold, from Providence, R. I., and left six children. He died March 28, 1802, aged nearly 80.' Dr. Elias Mann was the son of Sabin Mann, Esq. He graduated at Harvard College in 1800, M.B. 1805, and after a short but brilliant ca- reer, died March 9, 1807, aged 29. Dr. Lothario Donielson was a native of Brimfield, studied medicine with Dr. Ebenezer Phillips, of Charlton, and settled in Medfield before 1800. In 1826 he removed to Rochester, N. Y., thence to Michigan, where he died June 21, 1844, aged 79. Drs. Donielson and Mann, in 1606, attended several cases of %i spot- 27 ted fever1'; a disease which in that year commenced its ravages in Med- field, and afterwards became epidemic and spread throughout New Eng- land. Their account of the disease and of its treatment was first published in the Medical and Agricultural Register, and afterwards copied into the Communications of the Massachusetts Medical Society, Vol. II., page 36. Dr. James Hewins graduated at Harvard College in 1804, and settled in Medfield soon after the death of Dr. Mann. He was a medical pupil of Dr. Abjjah Richardson, had a large circle of practice, and was much esteemed, both as a physieian and citizen. He died in August, 1846> at the age of 64. I find on the town records the name of Dr. Thomas Lowthrain, late of Perth, Scotland, who died December 15, 1749 ; also of Dr. Jabez Fuller, who died Oct. 5, 1781. MEDWAY. Medvvay was incorporated in 1713. Dr. Aaron Wight studied medicine with Dr. Thomas Kittredge of Andover, and married Dr. K.'s daughter for his first wife. He was afterwards twice married, and had ten children. He was an intelligent physician, and devoted considerable attention to surgery. In conse- quence of disease in one of his lower limbs, he was under the necessity of having it amputated. The operation was successfully performed by Dr. Miller, of Franklin. In early life, it is believed about the year 1780, he had a smallpox hospital in Medfield, in connection with Dr. Jerauld. He died in 1813, aged 71. Dr. Abijah Richardson was born in Medway, August 30, 1752. In 1770, he entered Harvard College, where he remained two years. He then commenced the study of medicine. Having completed his studies, he entered the Revolutionary Army in the capacity of Surgeon's Mate, under Dr. Samuel Whitwell. He afterwards received a Surgeon's com- mission, and continued in the service of his country until the close, or near the close, of the war. He then settled as a physician in Medway, and there continued in the active and successful performance of the du- ties of his profession until his death, which occurred May 10, 1822, at the age of 70. Few physicians pass their professional career more honored and be- loved. He was an eminent botanist ; indefatigable in the pursuit of knowledge, and with a memory so retentive, that he seldom forgot what he had once acquired. He performed the duties of every relation in life with the most scrupulous exactness. He was affable, communicative, benevolent; but not obtrusive. He was an honor to his profession and 28 to his country ; and for many years to come his memory will be held in grateful recollection in the vicinity in which he lived. He married Mercy Daniels, by whom he had a numerous family. She still lives, at the age of 97, receiving from her grateful and prosperous country a handsome annual pension as a token of gratitude for services rendered by her husband in " the day which tried men's souls." NEEDHAM, Dr. William Deming appears to have been the earliest physician in Needham. He married Rebecca Peabody in 1759, and died of the "great cold," or influenza, probably in 1789. Dr. Peter Fisk was a physician in West Needham- He removed to Warwick, and there died. Dr. Isaac Morrill, of West Needham, was son of Rev. Isaac Morrill, of Wilmington, He was born in 1747, and died in May, 1839, aged 92. He settled in Natick before the commencement cf the Revolution- ary war. He was eminent in his profession, and highly respected in every relation of life, A short biographical notice of his character was published in the Boston Chronicle and Patriot, May 22, 1839. Dr. Timothy Fuller was a native of Needham, He graduated at Harvard College in 1787, studied medicine with Dr. Willard, and settled as a physician in East Needham, where he died in 1799, Dr. Samuel Adams, who received the degree of M.B. at Harvard in 1794, and M,D, in 1802, settled in East Needham. He removed thence to Boston, and afterwards to Cincinnati, where he died in 1845, aged 74. Dr. Samuel Gould was for a time at East Needham. He removed to West Roxbury, where it is said he died in 1850 or 1851, Dr. Josiah Noyes succeeded Dr. Gould. He was born at Acton, Oct. 8, 1811 ; studied medicine with Dr. Dunbar, of Westmoreland, N, H.; received the degree of M.D. at Dartmouth College in 1825, and settled in East Needham, where he continues to reside. He is distin- guished for his acquaintance with botany. BELLINGHAM. Bellingham was set off from Dedham May 11, 1719, and incorporat- ed November 27. The Congregational Church over which Rev. Jona- than Mills was ordained pastor in 1727, has long been extinct. Dr. John Corbett was the earliest physician in Bellingham, He mar- ried Mehitable Rock wood, Dr. John Corbett, son of the preceding, was born March, 1704 ; be- came a physician, resided in his native place, and practised medicine, 29 He married Hopestil Chapin, and died in 1794, aged 90. Dr. Corbett was a very successful practitioner, possessed a large landed estate, and had great influence in the town. He was a man of ardent feelings and uncommon decision of character. Upon the first news of hostilities with the mother country, he took a decided stand in favor of liberty. During the last half of his life, he labored under a serious disability in regard both to speech and locomotion ; yet as his bodily health was other- wise good, by means of a kind of chair fixed on wheels, and a well- trained horse, he continued to do a large business in his profession, and finally died of old age, after having seen the snows of ninety winters. Dr. John Scammell was the son of Dr. Samuel Leslie Scammell, of Milford. His mother was Bethiah, a daughter of Dr. John Corbett. His grandfather, Dr. Samuel Leslie Scammell, emigrated to this country from Portsmouth, England, A.D. 1738, and settled in that part of Men- don now called Milford, and died A.D. 1753, aged 45. He left two sons, Dr. Samuel Leslie, already alluded to, and Alexander. This Alexander distinguished himself in the Revolution ; was at one time one of General Washington's adjutants, and was officer of the day at the execution of Andre. Wishing for more active service, he took the colonelship of a select corps, and was slain a few days before the surrender of Cornwallis, aged 37. A monument is erected over his grave at Williamsburg, Va., and he is pictured among a group of officers in one of those large paint- ings which grace the walls of the Rotunda at Washington. He was an intimate friend of the first General Dearborn, who named his son, Gene- ral Henry Alexander Scammell Dearborn, after him. Dr. John Scammell studied medicine with his father in Milford, and after the death of his grandfather, Dr. Corbett, removed to Bellingham to take possession of a farm inherited from him. He was a man of a most amiable disposition, and was eminently skilful and successful in his profession. He was for nearly forty years a cotemporary with Dr. Thur- ber, whose residence was very near to his own ; and during this whole period these two excellent physicians lived on terms of the most perfect harmony. In the various relations of life he was highly esteemed, dis- charging the duties of those relations in a manner alike honorable to himself and acceptable to the community in which he lived. In April of the year preceding his death he unfortunately fractured the neck of the thigh bone, which never united. He died March 9, 1845, aged 84. Dr. Daniel Thurber first settled in East Bellingham, but soon re- moved just within the limits of Mendon. He was very highly esteemed as a man and medical practitioner. He was a good writer, but lacked the gift of public speaking. He was warm in his friendships, and per- 30 haps it should be added equally implacable when offended. The dis- honorable practitioner found in him no countenance. He was firm and decided in his principles and practice ; and his advice in cases of difficulty was much sought by his medical brethren. In 1825 he received from Brown University the honorary degree of M.D., and the following year a similar degree was conferred upon him at Harvard. As a further proof that his memory is still gratefully cherished, it may be added, that a medical association has been recently formed in the town of Milford, composed of physicians in that and the neighboring towns, who, to show their respect for his character, have taken the name of the " Thurber Medi- cal Association." Dr. Thurber died of paralysis, in 1836, aged 70 ; and an obituary notice of his character was at that time promised, but, if I am correctly informed, has never been published. Dr. Jonathan Thayer, who was born in 1717 and died about 1760, was a physician in Bellingham, and is represented to have held a good standing in his profession. A few other physicians have practised there. Among these may be named Dr. William Whitaker and Dr. Collins; also Dr. Timothy Mer- riam, who soon removed to Framingham, where he died in 1833, aged 76. WALPOLE, Walpole was set off from Dedham in 1724. Dr. Ebenezer Doggett was the earliest physician there. He was a native of Attleborough, and a grandson of John Doggett, of Watertown, who removed to Martha's Vineyard in 1642. He was much respected, and had a large circle of practice not only in Walpole, but also in Fox- borough and Wrentham. To this latter place he finally removed, where he died of cancer in the breast, Feb. 26, 1782. Dr. Rhodes, of Boston, succeeded Dr. Doggett, and remained two years. Dr. Seth Mann, a native of Walpole, and medical pupil of Dr. Dog- gett, was the next physician. He died about 1826. Dr. James Messinger died in Walpole in 1821, aged 51. Dr. Jonathan Wrild was a native of Randolph, and a medical pupil of Dr. Moses Baker, of that town. He commenced business in Walpole in 1780. He was a worthy man ; somewhat credulous in his tempera- ment, but notwithstanding this infirmity a useful physician and good citizen. He was bom in 1753, and died in October, 1833. Dr. Knapp resided in Walpole a few years, and then removed to Cumberland, R. I. Dr. Abel Wilder succeeded Dr. Knapp, but soon removed to Mendon. 31 Dr. Jonathan Ware was for a time a resident in Walpole, previously to his settlement in Milton. Dr. Ebenezer Stone settled in Walpole in 1824, where he still remains in successful practice. Dr. Henry B. Tappan took up his residence in Walpole in 1849, re- mained one year, and then removed to Central America, where he died in 1852. WRENTHAM. Wrentham was originally a part of Dedham, from which town it was set off March 27, 1661, when it contained but sixteen families ; but it i was not incorporated until October 15, 1673. In consequence of an f Indian war, which occurred in 1676, the settlement was for a time abandoned. In 1680 the inhabitants returned. i regret that my inquiries respecting the early physicians in this town have been less successful than I could have desired. I proceed, however, to present such facts as are in my possession. Dr. Benjamin Ware was born in Wrentham, July 8, 1688, and died Jan. 16, 1744, aged 56. He married Melatiah, relict of Jonathan Ware, Esq., who after his death became the wife of Col. Ephraim Leonard, , of Mansfield. Dr. Ware was reputed to have been a worthy physician " and much respected as a citizen. f Dr. Cornelius Kollock is supposed to have been the second resident physician in Wrentham. He married Sarah, daughter of Rev. Henry Messinger, who after her husband's death became the wife of Rev. Ben- jamiu Caryl, of Dover. Dr. Kollock died January 22, 1754. Dr. John Druce was a native of Brookline; graduated at Harvard College in 1738 ; studied medicine at Watertown ; settled as a physi- cian in Wrentham about the year 1740 ; married Margaret Trowbridge, of Newton ; had six children, one of whom, Mrs. Nancy Guild, is still living at the age of 98, having been born Feb. 9, 1755, to whom I am indebted for the facts respecting her father. He was much respected as ^ a physician, and died of consumption at the age of 55. Dr. Daniel Fisher died March 29, 1774. V Dr. Samuel Brenton died Jan. 3, 1791, aged 34. He was a young man of great promise, and much respected. Dr. John Fales died April 9, 1803, aged 61. Dr. Jenckes Norton died May 1, 1796, aged 37. His residence was in North Wrentham. Dr. Cyrus Bean was the son of Rev. Joseph Bean, had a respectable but not a widely-extended practice, and died April 5, 1813, aged 54. 32 Dr. James Mann was a native of Wrentham, and for more than twenty years a distinguished practitioner of medicine and surgery in that place, He graduated at Harvard College in 1776, and M.D. Brown University, 1815. He studied medicine in Boston under the direction of Dr. Dan- forth. Immediately after completing his pupilage, he joined the Revolu- tionary Army as a surgeon, but after three years' service his enfeebled health compelled him to resign. " He was a scientific practitioner—bold and intrepid, but not adventurous." He was the author of two essays to which the first Boylston medical prizes were awarded in 1804, and " his subsequent writings received the decided approbation of the profession." " Dr. Mann was appointed a hospital surgeon in the United States Army in 1812; and was at the head of the medical staff on the northern frontier during the late war. The arduous duties of this highly respon- sible station he discharged with distinguished ability, and to universal satisfaction." He died in New York, Nov. 1832. Dr. Samuel Bugbee graduated at Brown University in 1802; M.D. 1816; and died July 14, 1841, aged 60. He was a medical pupil of Dr. Mann ; was an active and enterprising physician, and enjoyed a wide circle of professional business. His death was occasioned by a dis- ease of the heart, an account of which was published in the Boston Medical and Surgical Journal, Vol. XXV., p. 64. Dr. Luther W. Sherman was a native of Wayland, where he was born in 1806. He studied medicine with Dr. Ebenezer Ames, of that place, and first settled as a physician at Falmouth. In 1835 he removed to Wrentham, where he continued until his death, which occurred October 29, 1837. He had the reputation of a conscientious and devotedly pious man ; was much respected as a physician ; and bore repeated afflictions with exemplary patience and Christian resignation. A few other physicians have resided in Wrentham for longer or shorter periods, most of whom have removed to other places. FRANKLIN. Franklin, originally a part of Wrentham, was set off from that town August 29, 1737, and incorporated March 2, 1778. Dr. Ebenezer Metcalf, the eighth child of Elder Michael Metcalf, was bom June 1, 1727, and " died March 30, 1801, in the 74th year of his age." He was a physician in Franklin, of good reputation. He had one son only, Paul Metcalf, bom in 1766, and died August 9, 1793. He also was a physician, and lived in his native town. Dr. John Metcalf was a physician in Franklin for half a century, from 1758 to H08. He was born in Wrentham, July 3, 1734 ; was a 33 descendant of Michael Metcalf, who emigrated from England in 1637. Dr. Metcalf was a medical pupil of Dr. Joseph Hewes, of Providence. He had in Franklin and vicinity an extensive and successful practice, and was the medical instructer of.several pupils, among others of Dr. Amos Holbrook, of Milton. For three years he was representative to the General Court, and was a colonel of militia in the time of the Re- volution. In 1808, when he had become too infirm longer to sustain the labors of his profession, he removed to St. Albans, Vt., where he died Aug. 22, 1822, aged 88. Dr. William Pitts Metcalf, son of Dr. John Metcalf, was born June 30, 1775 ; studied medicine with his father, and settled in Franklin, where he still resides, but has never been very actively engaged in medical pursuits. Dr. Lewis Le Prilette was a French surgeon. He came to this country in 1782; resided for a time in Norton, then at Roxbury, and finally in Franklin, where he died 29th July, 1804, set. 54. His remains were carried to Roxbury for interment, where a handsome stone with a Latin inscription marks their resting place.* Dr. Nathaniel Miller was a native of Swanzey, where he was bom April 23, 1771. In 1775 his parents removed to Rehoboth. At the age of 19 he was apprenticed to Dr. Le Prilette, then a resident in Nor- ton, and eminent in his profession as a surgeon. He soon acquired, by his industry and mechanical ingenuity, the confidence of his instructer, which in time ripened into the most intimate-friendship, and was con- tinued during his life. Having completed his medical studies, by the advice of his patron, Dr. Miller went to St. Domingo with the intention of establishing himself in his profession. But his education and habits were not adapted to that sphere. He found little sympathy and less employment in his new abode; his funds became exhausted ; and after some months passed in very trying circumstances, he returned to the United States and once more received substantial aid from his early benefactor. For a time he became an inmate of Dr. Le Prilette's family at Jamaica Plain, affording him such aid in his business as he required. At length, both Dr. Miller and his patron settled at Franklin, about the year 1799 or 1800; and from that period his eminence as a surgeon may be said to have been established. He was accustomed to perform all the more important surgical operations from the commencement of his career. He was a very cautious, ordinarily successful, but by no means * The following- is a copy of the inscription :—" In memoria Doctoris Ludovici Le Prilette, Mass. Med. Soc. feocii, nati Nante in Gallia, Oct. 10, Anno Domini MDCCL. Advenit Ameri- cam MDCCLXXX1I. Obiit carcinomate in glandula prostata, Julii die 29, MDCCCIV., iEtat. , Ephraim Wales, Ephraim Wales, Jonathan Walker, Joseph B. Ware, Benjamin Ware, Jonathan Warren, John Warren, Joseph Warren, E. Lewis Waterhouse, Benjamin Weld, Christopher M. Wheaton, Jesse White, Nathauiel Whittaker, William Whitwell, Samuel Wight, Aaron Wight, Danforth P. Wild, Jonathan Wild, Jonathan Wild, Charles Wild, Edward A. Wilder, Abel Wiley, Adams Willard, Samuel Willaixl,------ Williams, Thomas Williams, Stephen W. Wilson, Edmund Wilson, John Windship, Charles W. Windship, Amos Windbhip, Charles M. Wing, Benjamin F. Wood, Theophilus E. Wood, Joshua Woodside, Anthony W'oodward, Ebenezer Wyman, Charles F. Wyman, Rufus Young,------ 20, II 45 13 12,13 12,19 13 45 31 31 14,36 39 45 40 8, 19 30 27 27 25 30 12 45 45 30 45 26,28 39 36,37 17 9 9,26 38 38 45 45 45 20 38 11 4,19 37 20 * Not Joseph, as printed by mistake,