Andrew Houison facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Dr. Andrew Houison
B.A., M.B., Mast. Surg., |
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| Born | 1 January 1850 |
| Died | 22 August 1912 (aged 62) |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Education | Newington College University of Sydney University of Edinburgh |
| Occupation | Medical practitioner |
| Board member of | Founding President of the Royal Australian Historical Society Secretary to the NSW Medical Board |
| Parent(s) | James and Ann Houison (née Stark) |
Andrew Houison (born January 1, 1850 – died August 22, 1912) was a doctor from Sydney, Australia. He was also very interested in history and was a famous stamp collector. People called him one of the "Fathers of Philately" (stamp collecting). He was even added to the Roll of Distinguished Philatelists in 1921, which is a big honor for stamp collectors.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Andrew Houison was born in Parramatta, Australia. His parents, James and Ann Houison, were from Scotland. Andrew's father was a successful builder and architect in Parramatta. Andrew was the youngest of ten children in his family.
He went to school at Mr. Mills' Briar Cottage Academy. Later, he attended The King's School, Parramatta in 1858. In 1863, he became one of the first students at Newington College. He was the tenth student to join the college. In 1865, Andrew was the first student to win the "Dux" award at Newington College. This award is given to the best student. He then studied at the University of Sydney in 1866 and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1869.
Medical Career
Andrew Houison continued his studies at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. There, he earned his medical degrees (M.B. Ch.M.). He did special research on how to prevent infections with a famous professor named Joseph Lister. Professor Lister even offered him a job as his research assistant.
However, Andrew decided to return to Sydney. He worked as a private doctor for a while. Later, he became the Secretary for the New South Wales Medical Board. He was also chosen to be an Honorary Physician at Sydney Hospital. He had a very successful career as a doctor.
Love for Stamp Collecting
Andrew Houison started collecting stamps around 1865. He became an expert in the history of mail and stamps in New South Wales. He was the President of both the New South Wales and Australian Philatelic Associations. These groups are for people who love collecting stamps.
The government of New South Wales asked him to write a history book. This book was about the Post Office and the stamps of the area. He finished the book very quickly, and it was published in 1890.
Interest in Australian History
Andrew Houison also loved Australian history. In 1901, he helped start the Royal Australian Historical Society. He became its first President. People think his interest in history came from his stamp collecting. It also came from researching his family history in Scotland. His father's work in building up Parramatta also inspired him.
Death
Andrew Houison passed away on August 22, 1912, in Sydney. He was survived by his daughter and two sons. His wife had passed away before him.
Selected Publications
- History of the Post Office, together with an historical account of the issue of postage stamps in New South Wales. Sydney: C. Potter, Government Printer, 1890.
See also
