Thomas Lorkin facts for kids

Thomas Lorkin (born around 1528 – died 1591) was an important English churchman, a smart academic, and a doctor. He became the Regius Professor of Physic at Cambridge in 1564, which was a very important medical teaching job.

Who Was Thomas Lorkin?

Thomas Lorkin was a well-known figure in England during the 1500s. He was not only a respected doctor but also a scholar who taught at one of England's most famous universities. His work helped shape medical education during his time.

Early Life and Education

Thomas Lorkin was born in a place called Frindsbury in Kent, England, around the year 1528. His parents were Thomas Lorkin and Joan Huxley.

He began his studies at Pembroke Hall, Cambridge, in November 1549. He worked hard and earned his Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in 1552. Later, he achieved his Master of Arts (MA) degree in 1555. By 1560, he had become a Doctor of Medicine (MD), which is a high qualification for a physician.

Thomas Lorkin was a fellow at two different colleges. First, he was a fellow at Queens' College. Then, from November 1554 until 1562, he was a fellow at Peterhouse, another college at Cambridge University.

A Professor and Doctor

On April 21, 1564, Thomas Lorkin was given the special title of Regius Professor of Physic. This meant he was the main professor teaching medicine at Cambridge University. In the same year, he showed his medical knowledge to the Queen herself.

Besides his university role, Lorkin also served as a church leader. From 1572 to 1585, he was the rector of Little Waltham in Essex. A rector is a type of priest who leads a local church.

One of his students was a famous doctor named Thomas Muffet.

Later Life and Legacy

Thomas Lorkin passed away on May 1, 1591. He was buried in Great St Mary's Church, Cambridge, which is a well-known church in Cambridge. There was even a special message written about him there.

In his will, he left some of his properties to Pembroke Hall, Queens' College, and Peterhouse. He also donated his medical books to the university library. This shows how much he cared about education and sharing knowledge.

His Writings

Thomas Lorkin wrote a book called Recta Regula et Victus ratio pro studiosis et literatis. This book was about good rules for living and healthy eating, especially for students and educated people. He also wrote a Latin poem that was included in another historical book.

His Family

Thomas Lorkin married a woman named Catherine. She was the daughter of John Hatcher. They had five daughters. One of their daughters later married a man named Edward Lively.