John St. Clair Boyd facts for kids
Dr. John St. Clair Boyd (1858-1918) was an important Irish doctor and a big supporter of Irish culture. He was a skilled surgeon and a specialist in women's health. He also helped start the first Gaelic League in Belfast.
Early Life and Education
John St. Clair Boyd was born in 1858 at Cultra House in Holywood, County Down. He was the only son of John Kane Boyd, who co-owned the Blackstaff Mill. His family belonged to the Church of Ireland.
He decided to study medicine and attended Queen's College in Belfast, graduating in 1886.
Medical Career
After finishing his studies, Dr. Boyd worked for a while in Birmingham. In 1888, he returned to Belfast. He started working as an assistant surgeon at the Hospital for Sick Children on Queen Street.
Later in his career, he became a gynaecologist at the Ulster Hospital for Children and Women. A gynaecologist is a doctor who specializes in women's health.
Supporting Irish Culture
Dr. Boyd was very passionate about Irish culture and language. In 1895, he became the first President of the Belfast Gaelic League. This group worked to promote the Irish language and traditions.
He was also involved with the Dublin Pipers' Club, which celebrates traditional Irish music played on uilleann pipes. He even judged at music festivals.
In the 1890s, Dr. Boyd was a member of the Belfast Naturalists' Field Club. This club studied nature and the environment around Belfast. He wrote several articles for the club.
Personal Life
On November 1, 1887, John St. Clair Boyd married Helen Anne Cochran Macadam. Their wedding took place at Duddingston Parish Church in Edinburgh.
