Noel Broxholme facts for kids

Noel Broxholme was an English doctor who lived from 1686 to 1748. He was known for his medical skills and kind personality.

Early Life and Education

Noel Broxholme was born in Stamford, Lincolnshire. His father was Robert Broxholme from Oakham, Rutland. Young Noel started his education at Westminster School in 1700.

After Westminster, he went to Trinity College, Cambridge in 1704. He then moved to Christ Church, Oxford, where he continued his studies. He earned his first degrees there in 1709 and 1711.

In 1709, he began studying medicine. He learned from a famous doctor, Richard Mead, at St. Thomas's Hospital. In 1715, he received a special scholarship called a Radcliffe travelling fellowship. This allowed him to travel and learn more about medicine. When he returned, he became a full doctor (M.D.) in 1723.

Medical Career Highlights

After finishing his studies, Dr. Broxholme started his medical practice in London. He became a member of the College of Physicians in 1724. In 1731, he gave an important speech called the Harveian Oration, which was known for its excellent Latin.

Dr. Broxholme was one of the first six doctors chosen for St. George's Hospital when it opened in 1733. The next year, he became the first doctor for the Prince of Wales, who later became King George II. He held this important position until 1739. He also helped Queen Caroline during her final illness.

Personal Life and Character

In 1730, Noel Broxholme married Amy Hammond. She was the widow of a politician named William Dowdeswell. Her sons later received money from Dr. Broxholme's will.

His friends described him as a very witty and cheerful person. He loved poetry and was skilled in classic languages like Latin. One friend, Dr. William Stukeley, said that Broxholme "got much money in the Misisipi project in France." Another friend, Horace Walpole, remembered him as being very kind-hearted. Walpole said that Dr. Broxholme stopped practicing medicine because he found it too difficult to see so many sad and sick people. He was considered a very intelligent and good person.

Legacy

Noel Broxholme passed away at his country home in Hampton, Middlesex, on 8 July 1748. He was buried there a few days later.

In his will, he left money to help the students at Westminster School. He also left money to Christ Church, Oxford, to help finish their library. His wife, Amy, lived for six more years after him, passing away in 1754.

In 1754, a book was published called A Collection of Receipts in Physic. This book claimed to contain Dr. Broxholme's medical remedies and advice.