William Turner (anatomist) facts for kids
Sir William Turner (born January 7, 1832, in Lancaster – died February 15, 1916, in Edinburgh) was an important English anatomist. An anatomist is a scientist who studies the structure of living things. He was also the head, or Principal, of the University of Edinburgh from 1903 to 1916. He received many honors, including being made a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) and a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS).
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Life of Sir William Turner
William Turner was born in Lancaster. His father, William Turner, was a successful cabinetmaker. Young William went to several private schools. Later, he became an apprentice to a local doctor, Dr. Christopher Johnston. This means he learned medicine by working with the doctor.
He then studied medicine at St. Bartholomew's hospital in London. He earned his medical degree from the University of London in 1857. In 1854, he started working at the University of Edinburgh. He became a senior demonstrator in anatomy there. This role involved teaching students about the human body.
Early Career and Achievements
In 1857, when he was only 25, Turner became famous. He published a book called "Atlas of Human Anatomy and Physiology." This book was highly praised across the country. It has been printed many times and is still used today.
In 1861, he was chosen as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. This is a group of important scientists and thinkers. He held many leadership roles in this society for years. He also won two special awards from them: the Neill Prize and the Keith Prize.
Becoming a Professor
In 1867, William Turner became a full Professor of Anatomy at the University of Edinburgh. This was a very important position. Before this, he lived in rooms at the university. After becoming a professor, he moved into a house in Edinburgh.
He was known for his work as a brain surgeon. He wrote many valuable papers about the brain. He also wrote a book called "An Introduction to Human Anatomy." This book explained the structure of the human body. He also created a set of eight charts to help students learn anatomy. These charts showed bones, muscles, organs, and the nervous system.
Leadership Roles
Turner was a leader in many important medical and scientific groups. He was President of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh from 1882 to 1883. This college trains surgeons.
From 1898 to 1904, he was President of the General Medical Council. This council sets standards for doctors in the UK. In 1900, he was President of the British Association, a major science organization. He also led the Anatomical Society of Great Britain and Ireland from 1890 to 1893.
Sir William Turner passed away at his home in Edinburgh on February 15, 1916. He is buried in Dean Cemetery in Edinburgh. His wife and two daughters are buried with him.
Family
In 1863, William Turner married Agnes Logan. They had several children, including Arthur Logan Turner. Arthur also became a respected scientist.
Honours and Awards
Sir William Turner received many honors for his work. He was knighted in 1886. This meant he was given the title "Sir." In 1901, he was made a K.C.B., which stands for Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath. This is a very high honor.
He also received an honorary doctorate degree from the University of St Andrews in 1902. In 1909, the city of Edinburgh gave him the Freedom of the City. This is a special award given to important people.
Recognition
A building at the University of Edinburgh is named after him. It is called Turner House and is part of the Pollock Halls of Residence. This shows how much he was respected at the university.
Artistic Recognition
A sketch portrait of Sir William Turner was made in 1884 by William Brassey Hole. This portrait is kept at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.
Images for kids
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Memorial window to Prof Sir William Turner in Scottish National Portrait Gallery
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William Turner in 1881
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Eton Terrace, Edinburgh
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The grave of Sir William Turner, Dean Cemetery
