John Ash (physician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Ash
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John Ash by Joshua Reynolds (1788)
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| Born | 1723 |
| Died | 18 June 1798 |
| Resting place | Kensington Church, London |
| Nationality | English |
| Alma mater | Trinity College, Oxford |
| Occupation | Physician |
| Known for | Founding Birmingham General Hospital |
John Ash (born 1723 – died 18 June 1798) was an English doctor. He is famous for starting the Birmingham General Hospital.
Contents
A Doctor's Life: John Ash's Journey
John Ash was born in Coventry, England, in 1723. His father was a brewer. John went to Trinity College, Oxford for his education. He earned several degrees there, including his medical degree in 1754.
Starting a Hospital in Birmingham
After finishing his studies, Dr. Ash moved to Birmingham. He quickly became a very popular doctor. He saw many patients and helped many people.
Dr. Ash had a big dream: to build a hospital for everyone in Birmingham. He worked very hard to make this happen. Thanks to his efforts, the Birmingham General Hospital was founded. He became the first doctor there.
Overcoming Challenges and Moving to London
While working as a busy doctor, John Ash went through a difficult time. He experienced a period of mental illness. It is said that he found a way to feel better by studying mathematics and botany (the study of plants).
In 1786, he became a candidate at the Royal College of Physicians. The next year, he left his job in Birmingham and moved to London. He continued to practice medicine successfully in London.
He held important positions at the College of Physicians. He was a censor (someone who checks medical practices) in 1789 and 1793. He also gave special lectures, like the Harveian Oration in 1790.
Later Life and Legacy
John Ash passed away on 18 June 1798. He was buried in Kensington Church in London.
A famous artist named Sir Joshua Reynolds painted a portrait of John Ash in 1788. This painting is now at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. It shows him with the foundation block of the medical school he helped start.
Dr. Ash is also remembered with a special blue plaque in Birmingham. It is on the House of Fraser store in Temple Row.
John Ash's Contributions and Writings
John Ash was a Fellow of the Royal Society. This means he was recognized for his great skill as a doctor and his other achievements.
He also started a social and literary group called the Eumelian Club. The name was a clever play on words, referring to the "ash tree."
Dr. Ash wrote a few books and papers during his life:
- Experiments and Observations to investigate by Chemical Analysis the properties of the Mineral Waters of Spa, Aix, London, 1788. This book explored the chemical makeup of mineral waters.
- Oratio Harveiana, 1790. This was a speech he gave at the Royal College of Physicians.
