Smith, John (1825-1910)

The collection comprises medical sketches and drawings, papers relating to Smith's dental lectures, printed papers of the business and resolutions of the Edinburgh Dental Dispensary, Dental Examinations and Qualifications, publications and miscellaneous rough notes, and Smith's exercises in penmanship

John Smith, MD FRCSEd (1825-1910), surgeon, was the son of a dentist. He was born in Edinburgh and educated at the Edinburgh Institution, Edinburgh University and the Royal College of Surgeons.

After graduating he went to London and Paris where he made drawings of gun-shot and sabre wounds. Smith gave the first regular course on the physiology and diseases of the teeth in 1856. He was surgeon dentist to the Royal Public Dispensary, and in 1860, with Francis Imlach and others, he established the Edinburgh Dental Dispensary.

In 1859 he founded what was to become the Royal Hospital for Sick Children and wrote the book which celebrated the Quatercentenary of the Royal College in 1905.

Smith was made Surgeon Dentist to Queen Victoria in 1871 and LLD Edinburgh University, 1884. He was President of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and President of the British Dental Association. The College owns a fine portrait, currently (2005) on display in the Main Hall.

Arrangement based on pre-existing paper catalogue, with subject headings used as series level descriptions

Due to the rare, fragile and occasionally confidential nature of the material held, access to the archives is normally by appointment, to allow preparation and avoid disappointment. Data protection is closely observed. Please make arrangements in advance by contacting Due to the rare, fragile and occasionally confidential nature of the material held, access to the archives is normally by appointment, to allow preparation and avoid disappointment. Data protection is closely observed. Please make arrangements in advance with the library staff at library@rcsed.ac.uk.

Papers, sketches, drawings, publications, exercises