Edward Baynard (physician) facts for kids

Edward Baynard (born 1641, active around 1719) was an English doctor and poet. He was known for his medical advice and his popular poem about health.

Early Life and Education

Edward Baynard was likely born in Preston, Lancashire, a town in England. In 1665, when the Great Plague was happening, he spent time in both Chiswick and London.

He later went to the University of Leyden in 1671 to study medicine. It is believed he earned his medical degree there.

Medical Career

After his studies, Edward Baynard began working as a doctor in Preston. He became a respected member of the medical community. In 1684, he was made an honorary fellow of the College of Physicians of London. This is a special title given to distinguished doctors. He became a full fellow in 1687.

For about 26 years, starting around 1675, Dr. Baynard regularly visited the hot baths in Bath. He worked as a physician there, helping people with their health. He also had a practice in London, where he lived. In 1701, his home address was the Old House on Ludgate Hill.

Writings and Contributions

Edward Baynard was also a writer. He contributed to a book by Sir John Floyer called The ancient Psychrolousia revived (1702). This book was about the benefits of cold bathing. Baynard added a letter to it, sharing stories of many successful cures using cold baths in England. He also wrote about the amazing benefits of drinking the hot water from the pumps at Bath for upset stomachs.

His most famous work was a popular poem titled Health, a Poem. Shewing how to procure, preserve, and restore it. This poem was published in London in 1719. It also included a section called The Doctor's Decade. The poem gave simple, practical medical advice for staying healthy. It was very popular and was reprinted many times, with new editions appearing up until at least 1764.

Baynard also wrote two papers for the Philosophical Transactions, which was an important scientific journal. One of his papers was about "the Case of a Child who swallowed two Copper Farthings," describing what happened when a child accidentally swallowed coins.

Family

Edward Baynard had one daughter, Ann Baynard, who was also known for her learning.