Thomas Mackesy facts for kids

Thomas Lewis Mackesy (1790 – 8 April 1869) was an important Irish doctor and politician. He became the Mayor of Waterford, a city in Ireland. He was also the first person from outside Dublin to become the President of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in 1862. This was a big achievement for him.

Early Life and Career

Thomas Lewis Mackesy was born in Waterford, Ireland, in 1790. His father was an apothecary, which was like a pharmacist or chemist in older times.

As a young man, Thomas was involved in the famous Battle of Waterloo. This was a very important battle in history. After this, he decided to train as an assistant-surgeon for the army in Dublin.

Working as an Army Surgeon

Thomas spent seven years working abroad with the army. This means he traveled to different countries as a surgeon. After his time with the army, he returned to his hometown of Waterford.

Back in Waterford, he became a surgeon at the Leper and Fanning Hospitals. He also became very interested in helping his city. He married Mary Poulter and started a family.

Becoming a Politician

Thomas Lewis Mackesy was not just a doctor; he was also a politician. He served on the Waterford Corporation, which was like the city council. In 1841, he was elected as the Mayor of Waterford. The mayor is the leader of a city's government.

Family Legacy

Thomas's son, Joseph Poulter Mackesy (1816–1866), followed in his father's footsteps. Joseph also became a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. This means he was a highly skilled surgeon, just like his dad. Joseph also became an Alderman of Waterford Corporation, continuing the family's involvement in city politics.