Middlesex County Archives – Page 3 of 4

Dr. George O. Jarvis of Portland

1859 Map of Middlesex County Connecitcut - small

Dr. George O. Jarvis, born in 1795 in Connecticut, studied medicine under Dr. Truman S. Whitmore and gained his medical license in 1817. He practiced in Torrington and Colebrook before settling in Portland. Renowned for inventing “Jarvis’s Adjuster” for fracture treatment, he gained acclaim in Europe, receiving a gold medal from the Society for Promotion of Arts and Commerce, awarded by Prince Albert. Dr. Jarvis served in the medical field for 58 years and passed away in 1875. He was the father of Dr. George C. Jarvis of Hartford.

Dr. John Ely of Westbrook

Dr. John Ely, born in 1737 in Lyme, excelled in medicine, particularly smallpox treatment and inoculation, while practicing in Westbrook. He served as a colonel and surgeon during the Revolutionary War, dedicating himself to the care of sick officers even at the expense of his own freedom. Ely’s selflessness and commitment to his patients hindered his recovery after the war, leading to financial struggles and declining health. Though recognized for his contributions, he ultimately faced injustices regarding compensation. He is remembered for his generosity, dedication, and the admiration he garnered from peers and soldiers alike.

Dr. Elisha Mather of Centerbrook

Dr. Elisha Mather, a prominent physician in Centerbrook, was the son of Dr. Eleazer Mather and had a notable medical lineage, with several of his children also pursuing medicine. Married to Elizabeth Selden, he dedicated his career to teaching and practicing medicine until his death in 1836 at age 81. His medical students brought vibrancy to Centerbrook, often facing social tension with the town’s wealthier youth. A humorous incident involving the students and an unpleasant prank at church illustrated this rivalry. Dr. Mather’s legacy includes both his family and his impact on medical education in the area.

Dr. Richard Warner of Cromwell

Richard Warner, a Yale graduate of 1821, practiced medicine in Hadlyme and Middletown Upper Houses, becoming a prominent physician and president of the Connecticut Medical Society. He was known for his strong observational skills, interest in botany and mineralogy, and involvement in social causes like anti-slavery and temperance. A leading community member, he advocated for innovations that were initially ridiculed. Warner played a key role in establishing the town of Cromwell and was active in local improvements and church activities until his death in 1853 at fifty-nine.

Dr. Richard Ely of Saybrook

Dr. Richard Ely, born in 1765 in North Bristol, graduated from Yale in 1785 and studied medicine under Dr. John Noyes. He practiced in several locations including Killingworth, Wilbraham, and Centerbrook before settling in Chester in 1805. Ely received an honorary M.D. from Yale and served as treasurer for the State Medical Society. He was highly regarded in his field, being elected a Fellow multiple times. His life ended in 1816 due to fever from overwork, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and respect in the medical community.

The Woodward Doctors of Middletown

Dr. Henry Woodward, born in 1795 in Torringford, Connecticut, became a respected physician in Middletown after studying under his father and brother. He had a thriving practice and was known for his moral character and charitable work. He served in the State Legislature before dying from a chest disease in 1832 at 37. His brother, Dr. Charles Woodward, also a physician, continued his legacy in Middletown, gaining respect for his benevolence and commitment to the medical profession. He served in the State Senate and was instrumental in establishing the loca hospital before his death in 1870.

Dr. William Tully of Middletown

William Tully, born in 1785 in Connecticut, was a prominent physician and educator. Graduating from Yale, he studied medicine under Nathan Smith at Dartmouth, developing a strong interest in botany. Tully practiced medicine in various locations, eventually settling in Middletown. He co-authored a controversial medical book on fevers and served as a professor at the Vermont Academy of Medicine and Yale College. Known for his thorough scholarship, he published notable works, including a comprehensive treatise on Materia Medica. Tully passed away in 1859, leaving a significant legacy in the medical field.

Dr. Thomas Miner of Middletown

Dr. Thomas Miner, born in Westfield, Connecticut, in 1777, graduated from Yale College in 1796. Initially studying law and teaching, he shifted to medicine at 25 under Dr. Osborn in Middletown. He began practicing in 1807 but faced health issues, notably heart disease, which curtailed his career in 1819. Despite this, he contributed significantly to medical literature, co-authoring influential works and earning an honorary M.D. from Yale. A respected linguist and leader in the medical community, he served as president of the Medical Society of Connecticut before his death in 1841 at age 64.

Dr. William Brenton Hall of Middletown

Dr. William Brenton Hall, born in 1764, was a prominent physician and surgeon in Middletown, Connecticut, known for his dedicated service during the yellow fever outbreak in 1796. He graduated from Yale College in 1786 and specialized in surgery, becoming an esteemed member of the medical society. Dr. Hall was also a pioneer in smallpox inoculation and was recognized for his hospitality, supporting the medical community. He passed away in 1809 at the age of 45 after an accident. His contributions to medicine and community care were significant during his lifetime.

Dr. John Osborn of Middletown

Dr. John Osborn, a key figure in the early Connecticut Medical Society, organized the county’s medical society and served as its first chairman and treasurer. Educated at Harvard, he initially contemplated a career in ministry but shifted to medicine. He excelled in his field, notably advocating for smallpox inoculation and training numerous physicians. Known for his integrity and straightforwardness, Osborn was a prominent and sometimes intimidating figure in Middletown, where he practiced for over sixty years before passing away in 1825. His legacy continued through his sons, who also pursued medicine.