Thomas Cademan facts for kids
Sir Thomas Cademan (born around 1590, died 1651) was an English doctor. He was known for being a recusant, which meant he didn't follow the official Church of England at a time when everyone was expected to.
Life of a Doctor
Thomas Cademan was born in Norfolk around 1590. He studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, and earned his first degrees there. Later, he traveled to Italy and got his medical degree (M.D.) from the University of Padua in March 1620.
When he returned to England, he passed his exams with the College of Physicians of London in 1623. This allowed him to practice medicine in London.
Because Cademan was a Catholic, it seems his religious beliefs made it harder for him to join the College of Physicians fully. He finally became a licensed doctor with the College in December 1630.
By 1626, Cademan was chosen to be a special doctor for Queen Henrietta Maria, who was the wife of King Charles I.
Business Ventures
Sir Thomas Cademan was also involved in business. He and Sir William Brouncker had a special permission, called a patent, to make spirits and brew drinks. They had been doing this for many years.
In 1638, Cademan, along with Sir Theodore de Mayerne and other distillers (people who make spirits) and vinegar makers in London, formed a group called the "Distillers of London." Cademan was asked to help create the rules for this new company.
The Company of Apothecaries, who were pharmacists, didn't like this new group. They felt it interfered with their own business. However, the "Distillers of London" were allowed to continue. In 1638, they published a book called The Distiller of London. This book contained rules and instructions for making strong drinks and vinegars. Thomas Cademan was listed as the first leader of this company.
Writings
As a doctor, Cademan also wrote. He was the physician to Francis Russell, 4th Earl of Bedford. When the Earl died, Cademan wrote a short account about his death in a pamphlet in 1641.
Family Life
In 1630, Cademan treated a famous writer named William Davenant. Later, Davenant married Cademan's widow, Anne. Cademan also had an adult son in 1641.
