William Collins (New Zealand surgeon) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Collins
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Collins in 1920
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| Member of the New Zealand Legislative Council | |
| In office 22 January 1907 – 11 August 1934 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born |
William Edward Collins
14 October 1853 Darjeeling, India |
| Died | 11 August 1934 (aged 80) Wellington, New Zealand |
| Resting place | Karori Cemetery |
| Spouse |
Isabella Georgiana Warren
(m. 1886) |
| Children | David Collins |
William Edward Collins (born 14 October 1853 – died 11 August 1934) was an important person in New Zealand. He was a medical doctor, a talented sportsman, and a politician. He was a member of the New Zealand Legislative Council from 1907 until he passed away. This council was like an upper house of Parliament, helping to make laws for the country.
Early Life and Education
William Collins was born in Darjeeling, India, on October 14, 1853. His father was John Charles Collins, who was also a doctor. William went to school in England at Cheltenham College. Later, he studied medicine at the University of London and St George's Hospital in London. He became a qualified doctor in 1877.
A Sporting Star
William Collins was very good at sports, especially rugby union. He played as a half-back for the England team several times in the 1870s. After his rugby career in England, he moved to New Zealand.
He first arrived in Nelson in April 1877. By October 1878, he moved to Wellington, which became his main home.
Collins also played first-class cricket for the Wellington team in the 1880s. He had played cricket since his school days at Cheltenham College. His nephew, A. E. J. Collins, was also a famous cricketer, and his son, David Collins, played many first-class matches too.
Medical Career
Away from sports, William Collins was a well-known doctor and surgeon in Wellington. He had a medical practice on Boulcott Street. In 1884, another doctor named Walter Fell joined his practice. Later, he also worked with Walter Hislop.
During World War I, Collins served as a Colonel in the New Zealand Medical Corps. In 1915, he was on the New Zealand Hospital Ship Maheno, helping wounded soldiers in the Mediterranean Sea. For his important work, he was honored with the title of Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George in 1917.
Family Life
William Collins got married on November 4, 1886, in St Paul's Cathedral, Dunedin. He married Isabella Georgiana Warren. Isabella was the granddaughter of a politician named Matthew Holmes.
Political Life
In 1907, William Collins was chosen to be a member of the New Zealand Legislative Council. This was a very important role, as the council helped to review and approve new laws. He served in this position until he died in Wellington. His membership was renewed several times, showing how much he was valued.
William Collins passed away on August 11, 1934, at his home in Wellington. His funeral was held at St Paul's Pro-Cathedral, and he was cremated at Karori Cemetery.
