William MacGregor Henderson facts for kids

Sir William MacGregor Henderson (1913–2000) was a Scottish expert in animal health. He was a very important veterinary scientist. People often called him Gregor Henderson.

He was especially known for his work on foot and mouth disease. This is a serious illness that affects farm animals. Sir William also led the Zoological Society of London from 1984 to 1989. He helped control foot and mouth disease in South America for many years.

Early Life and Education

William MacGregor Henderson was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on July 17, 1913. His father, William Simpson Henderson, managed a company that printed banknotes. The family lived in the southern part of Edinburgh.

Gregor went to George Watson's College in Edinburgh for his schooling. After that, he decided to study animal medicine. He attended the Royal (Dick) Veterinary College in Edinburgh.

Fighting Foot and Mouth Disease

In 1939, Henderson started working at the Animal Virus Research Institute in Pirbright. This place was very important for studying animal diseases. His main focus was foot and mouth disease.

He worked hard to create a better vaccine for this disease. A vaccine helps protect animals from getting sick. He also developed a special way to measure how much virus was in a sample. This method became famous as the Henderson Method.

In 1945, he earned his DSc degree from the University of Edinburgh. His research was all about studying the foot and mouth disease virus. He stayed at Pirbright until 1956, making big steps in veterinary science.

Later Career and Honors

From 1957 to 1966, Sir William was in charge of controlling foot and mouth disease in South America. This was a huge job, helping to protect livestock across a whole continent.

Later, from 1972 to 1978, he served as the Secretary of the Agricultural Research Council. This council helps guide research in farming and animal health.

In 1976, he was given the title of Knight, becoming Sir William Henderson. This was a high honor for his important work. He also became a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1976. The next year, in 1977, he was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. These fellowships are for top scientists.

After he retired, Sir William became the Director of London Zoo. He helped lead this famous zoo for several years.

Family Life

In 1941, William MacGregor Henderson married Alys Beryl Goodridge. They had four sons together.