Archibald Robertson (physician) facts for kids

Archibald Robertson was a Scottish doctor and writer. He was born on December 3, 1789, in Cockburnspath, Scotland. He passed away on October 19, 1864, in Clifton, Bristol, England.

Robertson had an important career in the Royal Navy as a surgeon. After his time in the navy, he became a successful private doctor. He was also a member of important scientific groups like the Royal Society and the Royal Society of Edinburgh.

Archibald Robertson's Life and Career

In 1808, Archibald Robertson started working as an assistant surgeon. He was at Mill Prison hospital in Plymouth, helping French prisoners.

A year later, in 1809, he served on a ship called Caledonia. This ship was the main ship for Lord Gambier. They were in the Basque Roads when Lord Dundonald tried to attack the French fleet.

Robertson then served in the Baltic Sea and later in the West Indies. He was on ships like Persian and Cydnus. He also took part in boat missions during the Battle of New Orleans in the War of 1812.

When the war with the United States ended in 1815, Robertson went on "half-pay." This meant he was still part of the navy but wasn't actively working. He received a special medal for his service.

In 1818, he started a successful medical practice in Northampton. He became a doctor at the Northampton infirmary in 1820. In 1853, he moved to Clifton, Bristol and retired.

Archibald Robertson was recognized for his work. In 1836, he became a member of the Royal Society. In the same year, he joined the Royal Society of Edinburgh. He even served as the president of the British Medical Association in 1844.

His Education Journey

Archibald Robertson went to school in Duns. He also studied with Mr. Strachan in Berwickshire.

He chose to study medicine at Edinburgh University. He earned his first medical degree in 1808. In 1817, he received his advanced medical degree, called an MD. For his MD, he wrote a special paper about a stomach illness common in hot places.

Archibald's Family

Archibald Robertson was married to a woman named Lucy. They had children together.

One of their sons was named George Samuel Robertson. He also went to Exeter College, Oxford. George Samuel Robertson later became the father of another famous Archibald Robertson, who became a bishop.