John Armstrong Garnett facts for kids

"The College of Surgeons, Dublin". 1837.

John Armstrong Garnett (born June 24, 1767 – died January 16, 1831) was a very important doctor. He was the president of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) in 1810. This college is a special place where surgeons learn and become certified.

Who Was John Armstrong Garnett?

John A. Garnett was born in a town called Thurles. This was on June 24, 1767. He went to Tipperary Grammar School. His father had been the head teacher there for many years. John also studied at the College School. He learned about chemistry from Dr. Percival at Trinity College.

Early Life and Education

John worked hard to become a surgeon. On February 23, 1798, he earned his "Letters Testimonial" from the RCSI. This was like getting his official license to practice surgery. On August 4, 1800, he became a full member of the college. Soon after, he started working as a surgeon at Swift's Hospital. He also worked at the General Dispensary. This was a place where people could get medical care.

A Career in Medicine

John Garnett lived in Kildare-street. He had a busy medical practice. He was also very good at chemistry. His old notebooks show he did many experiments. On September 6, 1803, he became a professor. He taught "Surgical Pharmacy." This means he taught about medicines used in surgery.

In 1811, John Garnett became unwell. He had to leave Ireland for a while. Even though he was sick, the college still wanted him. They re-elected him as a professor. Another doctor, C. H. Todd, offered to teach for him if he was still sick. The next year, Andrew Johnston helped him. But John Garnett had to stop teaching in 1813. He was sick for 18 more years. He passed away on January 16, 1831. He died from a condition called paralysis. This happened in Sandymount, near Dublin. He was buried in St. Anne's church.

Helping a Famous Patient

John Garnett also cared for a very famous person. This was Lord Edward FitzGerald. Lord Edward was a leader in Ireland at the time. He was injured and in prison in Dublin. John Garnett was there to help him. Lord Edward FitzGerald later passed away in prison. John Garnett's diary tells us about his time caring for Lord Edward.

See also

• List of presidents of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
• Lord Edward FitzGerald whom Garnett attended.