Carl Rogers Darnall

Carl Rogers Darnall (December 25, 1867 – January 18, 1941) was a United States Army physician and a pioneer in the field of public health. He is best known for his work in the development of chlorination of drinking water, which significantly improved the safety and quality of public water supplies.

Early Life and Education

Carl Rogers Darnall was born on December 25, 1867, in Batesville, Arkansas. He attended the University of Arkansas, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He then went on to study medicine at the Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, graduating in 1890.

Military Career

Darnall joined the United States Army Medical Corps in 1896. During his military career, he served in various capacities, including as a surgeon and a public health officer. His most notable contribution came during his tenure at the Army Medical School in Washington, D.C., where he conducted groundbreaking research on water purification.

Contributions to Public Health

In the early 20th century, waterborne diseases such as typhoid fever and cholera were major public health concerns. Darnall's research focused on finding effective methods to disinfect drinking water. In 1910, he developed a method for chlorinating water using a solution of calcium hypochlorite. This method proved to be highly effective in killing harmful bacteria and was soon adopted by municipalities across the United States.

Darnall's work in water chlorination had a profound impact on public health, leading to a significant reduction in waterborne diseases and improving the overall quality of life for millions of people.

Later Life and Legacy

After retiring from the military in 1931, Darnall continued to be active in public health and medical research. He passed away on January 18, 1941, in Washington, D.C..

In recognition of his contributions to public health, the Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center at Fort Hood, Texas, was named in his honor. His pioneering work in water chlorination remains a cornerstone of modern public health practices.

See Also

• Water purification
• Public health
• United States Army Medical Corps
• Typhoid fever
• Cholera