John Kirby (surgeon) facts for kids

The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in 1837.

John Timothy Kirby (born in 1781, died May 26, 1853) was an important surgeon in Ireland. He was the president of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) two times, first in 1823 and again in 1834. He helped train many new surgeons and doctors.

Early Life and Training

John Timothy Kirby started his medical journey in the early 1800s. He earned his Letters Testimonial from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) in 1805. This meant he was qualified to practice surgery. A few years later, in 1808, he became a full Member of the RCSI.

He also studied at Dublin University. In 1805, he earned his B.A. degree. Later, in 1832, he received advanced degrees in law, an LL.B. and an LL.D. Kirby was skilled in both general medicine and surgery.

Teaching and His Own School

In 1809, Kirby became a Demonstrator in Anatomy at the RCSI. This meant he helped teach students about the human body. He worked with famous professors like William Dease and Abraham Colles.

Soon after, Kirby decided to open his own private medical school. He partnered with Alexander Read to create the 'Theatre of Anatomy' on Stephens Street. The school taught students about anatomy and surgery.

The school moved to Peter Street in 1810. By 1812, Kirby was the only owner of the 'Theatre of Anatomy and School of Surgery'. His school became very popular.

Learning About War Injuries

Kirby's lectures on gunshot wounds were especially well-known. At this time, there were many wars happening in Europe. So, skills in treating battlefield injuries were very important. Students wanted to learn from him.

To help his students get practical experience, Kirby opened a small hospital in 1811. It was called St. Peter's and St. Bridget's Hospital. It was right next to his school. This allowed his students to see and help with real patient care.

Leading the RCSI

Even though he sometimes had disagreements with other surgeons, like Abraham Colles, Kirby was highly respected. He was known as a skilled surgeon and a great teacher. He often took part in important medical meetings.

Because of his reputation, John Timothy Kirby was elected President of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in 1823. This was a very important leadership role.

A New Hospital Idea

After his first time as president, Kirby had a big idea. He suggested that the College should build a National Surgical Hospital. He believed this hospital would help many people in Ireland.

He even wrote a pamphlet to explain his idea. He argued that a new hospital would be more useful than simply making the College's museum bigger. However, his idea was not approved by his colleagues.

Second Term as President

By 1832, Kirby was given the important role of Chair of Medicine at the RCSI. With this new position, he decided to close his private medical school. He also gave his valuable collection of medical items to the RCSI museum.

In 1834, John Timothy Kirby was elected President of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland for a second time. This showed how much his colleagues respected him.

See also

• List of presidents of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland