Benjamin Fonseca Outram facts for kids
Sir Benjamin Fonseca Outram KCB (born 1774 – died 16 February 1856) was an English naval surgeon and doctor. He spent many years caring for sailors in the Royal Navy before becoming a respected physician in London.
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A Life of Service
Sir Benjamin Outram was born in Yorkshire. He was the son of Captain William Outram. He studied to become a surgeon at hospitals in London.
Benjamin Outram started working for the navy's medical service in 1794. By 1796, he became a full surgeon. He served on several ships, including HMS Harpy, HMS La Nymphe, and HMS Boadicea.
He was the surgeon on HMS Superb during a major sea battle near Algeciras in 1801. In this battle, Sir James Saumarez led the British fleet to victory against French and Spanish ships. Benjamin Outram received special medals for his brave service, especially for his work under Sir Richard Goodwin Keats. Later, he even served as a surgeon on the royal yacht, HMS Royal Sovereign.
Becoming a Physician
In 1806, Outram decided to become a private doctor. He went to Edinburgh and earned his medical degree in 1809. In 1810, he was allowed to practice as a doctor by the Royal College of Physicians in London. He then started his own practice in Hanover Square, where he lived for over 40 years. He also worked as a doctor at the Welbeck Street Dispensary, which helped people get medical care.
Important Roles and Honors
Benjamin Outram was very respected in the medical field. In 1838, he was chosen as a fellow of the Royal Society, a famous group for scientists. He also became an early member of the Royal Geographical Society, which explores the world.
In 1841, he became a top doctor for the navy. He was in charge of the medical care for all of Her Majesty's fleets and hospitals. For his great service, he was given a special honor called Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) in 1850. In 1852, he became a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians.
Sir Benjamin Outram passed away in Brighton on 16 February 1856. He was buried in Clifton, Bristol.
His Writings
Sir Benjamin Outram also wrote some important medical texts:
- 'De Febre continuâ,' Edinburgh, 1809. This book was dedicated to his uncle, Sir Thomas Outram.
- 'Suggestions to Naval Surgeons previous to, during, and after a Battle.' This was a pamphlet with advice for naval surgeons during wartime.
