John Bradmore facts for kids

John Bradmore (died January 1412) was an English surgeon and metalworker. He wrote one of the earliest books about surgery, called the Philomena. He was a special surgeon for King Henry IV of England. Bradmore is most famous for removing an arrow from the head of the king's son, Prince Henry. This happened after a battle in 1403. Prince Henry later became King Henry V.

A Family of Surgeons

John Bradmore was not the only surgeon in his family. His brother, Nicholas Bradmore, was also a surgeon in London. John became more successful and quite wealthy. John's daughter, Agnes, also married a surgeon named John Longe. Bradmore worked as a court doctor for King Henry IV for many years.

Surgeons often worked with metal, perhaps to make their own tools. Bradmore was likely very good at metalwork. He was also called a "gemestre," which might mean he made jewelry.

The Prince's Arrow Wound

Before the Battle of Shrewsbury, Bradmore was not available. But when Prince Henry, who was sixteen, was shot in the face with an arrow at the battle, Bradmore was quickly called to help. The wounded prince was taken to Kenilworth, and Bradmore went there to treat him.

Bradmore used a special tool he invented to remove the arrow. He slowly widened the wound so the arrow could come out without causing more damage. He then cleaned the wound with honey and used a special medicine to help it heal. This was a very difficult and important surgery.

Later Life and Writings

For saving Prince Henry, Bradmore received a payment of 10 marks every year. He also received money for medicines he gave to the king. In 1408, Bradmore was given a job as a "Searcher" at the Port of London. This job involved checking goods coming into the city.

Bradmore wrote his book, Philomena, between 1403 and his death in 1412. This book describes the special tool he invented and how he performed the surgery on Prince Henry. His son-in-law, John Longe, published the book. It was first written in Latin and later translated into English in 1446.

Bradmore also cared for other people connected to the king. He once looked after William Wyncelowe, who worked for the king, for 86 days. Wyncelowe recovered thanks to Bradmore's care.