Joseph Francis Olliffe facts for kids

Sir Joseph Francis Olliffe (1808 – 14 March 1869) was an important Irish doctor. He spent much of his life working in Paris, France, and was known for helping many people, including important leaders. He was also honored by both the French and British governments for his work.

Early Life and Education

Joseph Olliffe was born in 1808 in Cork, Ireland. His father, also named Joseph Francis Olliffe, was a merchant. His mother was Elizabeth McCarthy from County Limerick.

Joseph Olliffe went to school in Paris, France. He earned a degree called Master of Arts in 1829. Later, in 1840, he became a Doctor of Medicine. This meant he was fully qualified to practice as a doctor.

A Busy Medical Career

After finishing his studies, Joseph Olliffe started working as a doctor in Paris in 1840. He became a respected member of the medical community there. He was part of the Anatomical Society of Paris and even led the Paris Medical Society for a time.

His skills were recognized by important people. In 1846, King Louis-Philippe of France made him a knight of the Legion of Honour. This is a very high award in France. Later, in 1855, Napoleon III promoted him to an Officer of the Legion of Honour.

In 1852, Sir Joseph became the doctor for the British embassy in Paris. This meant he looked after the health of British officials and their families. For his service, he was made a knight by the British government in 1853 at Buckingham Palace. This is why he was called "Sir Joseph."

He also helped with big international events. In 1855, he was chosen to be a judge for health and medicine at a large exhibition in France. In 1861, he joined a committee for health equipment at another international exhibition. In 1859, he became a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians in London, which is a group of highly respected doctors. Sir Joseph had a very successful medical practice and was well-known in society.

Family Life

On 19 April 1841, Sir Joseph Olliffe married Laura Cubitt. She was born in London in 1823. Laura was the daughter of William Cubitt, who was once the Lord Mayor of London. Sir Joseph and Laura had two children:

• Mary Emma Olliffe (1845 – 1897), who married Sir Frank Lascelles.
• Florence Eveleen Eleanore Olliffe (1851 – 1930), who later became Dame Florence Bell. She married Sir Thomas Hugh Bell.

Later Years and Legacy

Sir Joseph Olliffe was a close friend and personal doctor to Charles de Morny, an important French leader. They even worked together on building projects in Deauville, France.

Sir Joseph Olliffe passed away in Brighton, England, on 14 March 1869. He is remembered as a respected doctor who served both the French and British communities.