Francis Kiernan facts for kids

Francis Kiernan (born October 2, 1800 – died December 31, 1874) was a skilled anatomist and doctor. An anatomist studies the structure of living things. He was known for his important discoveries about the human liver.

Early Life and Education

Francis Kiernan was born in Ireland. He was the oldest of four children. His father, also named Francis Kiernan, was a doctor too. The family moved to England in the early 1800s.

Young Francis went to school at the Roman Catholic College in Ware, Hertfordshire. He then studied medicine at St Bartholomew's Hospital in London.

Teaching and Challenges

After his studies, Francis Kiernan started his own private class to teach anatomy in Charterhouse Square, London. He was a very successful teacher, and many students wanted to learn from him.

However, his success made some people jealous. In 1825, the Council of the Royal College of Surgeons of England decided they would only accept certificates from teachers they officially recognized. This meant students from Kiernan's class could not get their qualifications easily. Many students left his class. Even though people said he was a great teacher, the Council did not change its decision.

Important Achievements

Despite these challenges, Francis Kiernan achieved many great things. In 1825, he became a Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of England.

He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1834. This is a very important group for scientists. In 1836, he received the Copley Medal from the Royal Society. This award was for his amazing work on understanding the anatomy of the liver.

In the same year, 1836, he helped start the University of London. He worked there as an examiner and lecturer, teaching about anatomy and how the body works (physiology).

Later Career and Health

In 1843, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons. He also served on its Council starting in 1850. He became a Vice-President for one year (1864–1865).

However, he had to decline being nominated again because of his health. In 1865, he had a stroke, which is a serious medical event. He never fully recovered from it. In 1849, he was also elected as a member of the American Philosophical Society.

Death

Francis Kiernan passed away on New Year's Eve, December 31, 1874. He was at his home in Manchester Street, London. He never married. He was buried in the Roman Catholic cemetery in Mortlake, London.