Cornelius Rea Agnew

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Cornelius Rea Agnew. Ophthalmic Surgeon Wellcome M0010091

Cornelius Rea Agnew (August 8, 1830 – April 18, 1888) was an American ophthalmologist and otolaryngologist. He was a prominent figure in the medical field during the 19th century and made significant contributions to the development of ophthalmology and otolaryngology in the United States.

Early Life and Education

Cornelius Rea Agnew was born on August 8, 1830, in New York City. He attended Columbia College (now Columbia University), where he graduated in 1849. He then pursued his medical degree at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York, graduating in 1852.

Medical Career

After completing his medical education, Agnew began his practice in New York City. He quickly gained a reputation for his expertise in ophthalmology and otolaryngology. In 1864, he was appointed as a surgeon to the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, where he worked for many years.

Agnew was also a founding member of the American Ophthalmological Society and served as its president from 1867 to 1869. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital in 1869, where he served as a surgeon and contributed to the advancement of medical practices in these specialties.

Civil War Service

During the American Civil War, Agnew served as a medical officer in the Union Army. He was appointed as the Medical Director of the United States Sanitary Commission, where he played a crucial role in organizing medical care for wounded soldiers. His efforts were vital in improving the sanitary conditions and medical treatment of soldiers during the war.

Contributions to Medicine

Agnew made numerous contributions to the fields of ophthalmology and otolaryngology. He published several papers on various medical topics and was known for his innovative surgical techniques. His work helped to advance the understanding and treatment of eye and ear diseases.

Personal Life and Legacy

Cornelius Rea Agnew married Mary Nash in 1855, and they had several children. He continued to practice medicine and contribute to medical societies until his death on April 18, 1888.

Agnew's legacy in the medical field is remembered through his contributions to the development of ophthalmology and otolaryngology in the United States. His work laid the foundation for future advancements in these specialties.

See Also

• Ophthalmology
• Otolaryngology
• American Ophthalmological Society
• Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital
• New York Eye and Ear Infirmary