James Burnes (surgeon) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Burnes
KH FRS
|
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | 12 February 1801 |
| Died | 19 September 1862 (aged 61) |
| Relatives | Alexander Burnes (brother) |
James Burnes was a Scottish doctor and surgeon who lived from 1801 to 1862. He became a very important medical leader in Bombay (now known as Mumbai), India.
Contents
Early Life and Education
James Burnes was born on February 12, 1801, in a town called Montrose in Scotland. His father, also named James Burnes, was the leader of the town, known as the Provost.
James Burnes studied medicine at Edinburgh University in Scotland. He also continued his medical training at famous hospitals in London, England, like Guy's Hospital and St Thomas's Hospital.
Medical Career in India
Starting in Bombay
In 1821, James Burnes traveled to Bombay (now Mumbai) in India with his brother, Alexander Burnes. He started his career in the medical service by taking on smaller jobs.
Soon, he won a competition to become the surgeon for the Cutch State. This area had recently come under the control of the East India Company.
Helping in Cutch
The Cutch State was led by a young ruler named Deshalji II. When invaders from Sindh attacked, the British soldiers had to retreat. James Burnes bravely joined the soldiers as a volunteer. In 1825, he helped the forces push out the invaders from Sindh.
Diplomatic Missions
After his success, Burnes was invited to Hyderabad in Sindh. He took on a special mission, acting like a diplomat for the British. He completed this mission very successfully.
In 1834, Burnes returned to England for a break due to illness. During this time, he received some big honors. He was given a special degree (LL.D.) from Glasgow University. He also became a Fellow of the Royal Society, which is a group of top scientists. King William IV also gave him a special award called the knighthood of the Royal Guelphic Order.
Leading the Medical Board
When James Burnes returned to India in 1837, he was given important roles. He became the garrison surgeon of Bombay, which meant he was in charge of medical care for the soldiers. Later, he became the secretary of the medical board, then a superintending surgeon, and finally the physician-general. This was the highest medical position in Bombay.
He also cared about educating people. He was a member of the board of education and worked to improve medical training for Indian students. In 1849, after 28 years of service, he had to resign because of poor health.
Later Life
After returning home, James Burnes lived in Forfarshire, Scotland, where he helped with local matters as a justice of the peace. He later moved to London, England, and passed away there on September 19, 1862.
Freemasonry Involvement
James Burnes was also involved in a group called Freemasonry. He joined an English Lodge in Bombay in 1828. Later, when he was in Scotland, he became an honorary member of two Scottish Lodges.
In 1836, he was chosen to be the Provincial Grand Master of Western India for the Grand Lodge of Scotland. His role grew, and he became the Grand Master for all Scottish Freemasonry in India. During his time, two new Scottish Masonic Lodges were started in India: Rising Star of Western India in Bombay and St Andrew-in-the-East in Poona. Both of these Lodges are still active today (as of 2019).
Published Works
James Burnes wrote several books and reports. One of his important works was a detailed report about his visit to Sindh, which was later published as a book called Narrative of a Visit to Scinde in 1830. This book helped people learn more about the geography of India.
He also wrote a Sketch of the History of Cutch and a Sketch of the history of the Knights Templar, a famous historical group.
Legacy and Honors
When James Burnes left Bombay, special medals were created in his honor. These medals were awarded to top students at the Grant Medical School in Bombay, the Montrose Academy, and the boys' and girls' schools at Byculla.
The two Scottish Lodges he helped establish in India are still meeting in Mumbai and Pune today. A road in India, Burns Road, is also named after him.
Recognitions
- 1835: Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS)
- Knight of the Royal Guelphic Order (KH)
Family Life
In 1829, James Burnes married Sophia Holmes in Bombay, and they had nine children together. Later, in June 1862, he married his second wife, Esther Pryce.
