Charles Wilkins Short

American botanist and physician

Portrait of Charles Wilkins Short

Charles Wilkins Short (October 6, 1794 – March 7, 1863) was a prominent American botanist and physician known for his contributions to the study of North American flora. He was a respected figure in the medical and botanical communities of the 19th century.

Early Life and Education

Charles Wilkins Short was born in Woodford County, Kentucky, into a family with a strong tradition of public service and education. His father, Peyton Short, was a notable figure in Kentucky politics. Charles pursued his early education locally before attending Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky, where he developed an interest in the natural sciences.

Medical Career

After completing his studies at Transylvania University, Short pursued a career in medicine. He attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned his medical degree in 1815. Upon returning to Kentucky, he established a successful medical practice and became a well-regarded physician in the region.

Botanical Contributions

Short's passion for botany was evident throughout his life. He was an avid collector of plant specimens and contributed significantly to the understanding of the flora of the southeastern United States. His work in botany was recognized by his peers, and several plant species were named in his honor, including Shortia and Carex shortiana.

Collaborations and Correspondence

Short maintained correspondence with many prominent botanists of his time, including Asa Gray and John Torrey. These exchanges were crucial in the development of botanical knowledge in America during the 19th century. His extensive collection of plant specimens was eventually donated to various institutions, where they continue to be valuable resources for botanical research.

Academic and Professional Affiliations

In addition to his medical practice, Short was actively involved in academia. He served as a professor of materia medica and medical botany at Transylvania University, where he influenced many students who would go on to have distinguished careers in medicine and science.

Legacy

Charles Wilkins Short's contributions to both medicine and botany have left a lasting impact. His dedication to the study of plants and his role in advancing medical education in Kentucky are remembered through the species named after him and the institutions that benefited from his work.

Related Pages

• Botany
• Transylvania University
• Asa Gray
• John Torrey