Thomas Cogan (Tudor physician) facts for kids

Thomas Cogan (born around 1545 – died 1607) was a clever English physician and teacher from a long time ago. He lived during the exciting Elizabethan era, a time when England was ruled by Queen Elizabeth I. Cogan was known for his medical knowledge and for writing helpful books.

A Young Scholar's Journey

Thomas Cogan was born in a place called Chard in Somersetshire, England, around the year 1546. He was a very bright student and went to Oxford, which is one of the oldest and most famous universities in the world.

Oxford University Days

At Oxford, Thomas studied hard. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), in 1563. A few years later, in 1566, he got his Master of Arts (M.A.). He even became a special member, called a fellow, at Oriel College in 1563. This meant he was part of the teaching and governing staff.

Becoming a Doctor

Thomas Cogan didn't stop there! He continued his studies and earned a medical degree, a Bachelor of Medicine (M.B.), in 1574. This showed he was ready to become a doctor.

Life as a Teacher and Doctor

After finishing his studies, Thomas Cogan decided to use his knowledge to help others. He left his position at Oriel College in 1574.

Leading a School

Soon after leaving Oxford, Thomas Cogan became the headmaster of the Manchester grammar school. This was a very important job, as he was in charge of educating many young people. He taught there for many years, helping students learn and grow.

Practicing Medicine

While he was the headmaster, Thomas Cogan also worked as a doctor in Manchester. He used his medical skills to care for people in the community. He even became the family doctor for an important person named Sir Richard Shuttleworth between 1591 and 1593.

Family Life

Before 1586, Thomas Cogan married a woman named Ellen. She was the daughter of Sir Edmund Trafford and had some property in Manchester. Thomas Cogan was also very generous. He gave many medical books, including the works of the famous ancient doctor Galen, to the library at Oriel College in 1595. These books are still kept there today!

Later Years

Thomas Cogan eventually stepped down from his role as schoolmaster before 1602. He passed away in June 1607 and was buried in the church in Manchester. In his will, he left property in both Somersetshire and Manchester. He also left books to the staff at Oriel College and even gave a small amount of money (4 pence) to every boy at the school he once led. His wife, Ellen, died a few years later in December 1611.

Thomas Cogan's Books

Thomas Cogan was not just a doctor and a teacher; he was also a writer! He wrote several books that shared his knowledge and wisdom.

The Well of Wisdom

One of his books was called The Well of Wisedome, containing Chiefe and Chosen Sayinges … gathered out of the Five Bootes of the Olde Testament …. This book, published in 1577, was a collection of important sayings from the Old Testament of the Bible.

The Haven of Health

Perhaps his most famous book was The Haven of Health, made for the comfort of Students …. This book, first published in 1584, was written to help students stay healthy. It was so popular that it was printed many times! Along with this book, he also published a guide called A Preservative from the Pestilence, which gave advice on how to avoid sickness, especially during a time when there was a serious illness in Oxford.

Books for Learning Latin

Thomas Cogan also wrote books to help students learn Latin. One was called Epistolarum familiarium M. T. Ciceronis epitome …. This book was meant to be an easy introduction to the writings of a famous Roman speaker named Cicero. It even included a special message to all schoolmasters. Another historian, Wood, also mentioned two other books by Cogan about Cicero's writings.