Dugald Christie (missionary)

Scottish medical missionary in China

Dugald Christie as a student, circa 1880

Dugald Christie (11 November 1855 – 2 December 1936) was a Scottish medical missionary known for his work in China, particularly in the region of Manchuria. He was instrumental in establishing medical facilities and educational institutions, significantly impacting the healthcare and education systems in the area.

Early Life and Education

Dugald Christie was born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1855. He pursued his medical education at the University of Edinburgh, where he graduated with a degree in medicine. During his time as a student, Christie developed a strong interest in missionary work, influenced by the religious and social movements of the time.

Missionary Work in China

In 1883, Christie was appointed by the United Presbyterian Church of Scotland as a medical missionary to China. He arrived in Mukden, now known as Shenyang, in 1884. At that time, Manchuria was a region with limited access to modern medical care, and Christie was determined to address this need.

Establishment of Mukden Medical College

Mukden College students and staff, Mukden, Manchuria, 1922

One of Christie's most significant contributions was the establishment of the Mukden Medical College in 1883. The college was the first of its kind in Manchuria and aimed to train local Chinese students in Western medical practices. Christie believed that educating local practitioners was essential for the sustainable development of healthcare in the region.

Development of Medical Facilities

Christie also founded the Mukden Hospital, which served as a teaching hospital for the medical college. The hospital provided much-needed medical services to the local population and became a center for medical education and research. Under Christie's leadership, the hospital expanded its facilities and services, becoming a model for other medical institutions in China.

Impact and Legacy

Christie's work in Manchuria had a lasting impact on the region's healthcare system. He was a pioneer in introducing Western medical practices to China and played a crucial role in the development of medical education in the country. His efforts laid the foundation for future advancements in Chinese healthcare and inspired many other missionaries and medical professionals to follow in his footsteps.

Later Life and Death

After decades of service in China, Christie returned to Scotland in the early 20th century. He continued to support missionary work and remained active in the medical community until his death in 1936. Christie is buried in the Grange Cemetery in Edinburgh.

Dugald Christie's grave, Grange Cemetery

Related Pages

• Medical Missionary Society in China
• History of medicine in China
• University of Edinburgh