John Hutton (physician) facts for kids
John Hutton (who passed away in 1712) was a Scottish doctor and a member of the British Parliament. He was also a Fellow of the Royal Society, which is a group of important scientists.
John was born in Caerlaverock, a place in Dumfriesshire, Scotland. When he was young, he worked as a herd-boy, looking after animals for the local church minister. This minister made sure John got a good education. He studied medicine in Edinburgh and later earned his M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) degree in Padua, Italy.
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A Royal Doctor
John Hutton became a doctor to kings and queens by chance! In 1686, Princess Mary of Orange fell from her horse. John happened to be the closest doctor available to help her.
He impressed Prince William (who later became King William III) so much. Prince William asked many questions about John's experience and character. After hearing good things, he chose John to be his wife's personal doctor.
Serving the King
When William became King of England in 1689, he made John Hutton his official court physician. This was a very important job, and John earned £400 a year. This also helped him become a member of the College of Physicians in 1690.
John traveled with King William to Ireland. He was even with the King during famous battles like the Battle of the Boyne and the Siege of Limerick. Besides being the King's personal doctor, John also worked as the main doctor for the entire army.
Doctor to Queen Anne
In 1695, John Hutton received another M.D. degree from Oxford University. He was also chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society on November 30, 1697. This shows how respected he was in the world of science and medicine.
When Queen Anne became queen in 1702, John continued as her first physician. However, he only held this specific role for six months. He did keep his job as the main doctor for the army until 1707.
A Member of Parliament
In 1710, people from his home area encouraged John Hutton to become a Member of Parliament (MP). An MP is someone elected to represent their local area in the country's government.
John was elected to represent Dumfries. He served in Parliament until he passed away in 1712.
His Life and Legacy
John Hutton never got married. After his death, he left some money and gifts to his hometown of Caerlaverock and to his family. The rest of his money went to his cousin. This cousin was in charge of Somerset House in London and had let John live there. John asked to be buried in the chapel at Somerset House, and his wish was granted.
