The Doctor Who Shaped Irish Medicine

A time when medicine was still finding its feet. John Stearne, born in 1624, was a key figure in this era. He was the first to hold the title of Regius Professor of Medicine at Trinity College Dublin. His journey wasn't straightforward, though. Stearne's story begins in Ardbraccan, County Meath. He was lucky to have a powerful family. His great uncle was James Ussher, the Archbishop of Armagh and a well-known scholar. This connection helped Stearne get into Trinity College in 1639. He was even elected as a Scholar in 1641. But then, trouble hit. The Confederate Wars broke out, and Stearne had to flee Dublin. He ended up in Cambridge, where he studied medicine at Sidney Sussex College. After a brief stint practicing medicine in Bedfordshire, he returned to Trinity in 1651. This time, he was appointed as Professor of Medicine and the College's medicus. His role didn't stop there. He also became Professor of Hebrew and Professor of Law. Stearne was a prolific writer, penning six books. He was also a Senior Fellow of the College. In 1654, he and other Dublin physicians established the Fraternity of Physicians in a disused building on Trinity Street. This group would later become the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland. Stearne's journey had its ups and downs. He resigned from his Fellowship and Professorship in 1659 but was reinstated by 1662 after the Restoration of King Charles II. The Royal College of Physicians of Ireland received its first royal charter in 1667. Sadly, Stearne passed away in 1669 at the age of 44. Stearne's life was marked by significant events. The political turmoil of his time played a big role in his career. His family's influence also helped shape his journey. But it was his dedication and hard work that truly made a difference. He left a lasting impact on Irish medicine. Stearne's story isn't just about one man. It's about the power of education, the importance of family, and the impact of political events. It's a reminder that even in tough times, people can make a difference. Stearne's legacy lives on in the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, a testament to his contributions to medicine.