Herman Kiefer

Hermann Kiefer

Herman Kiefer (November 19, 1825 – October 11, 1911) was a German-American physician, politician, and diplomat. He is best known for his contributions to public health and his involvement in the German-American community in the United States.

Early Life and Education

Herman Kiefer was born in Sulzburg, Grand Duchy of Baden, Germany. He studied medicine at the University of Freiburg and the University of Heidelberg, where he earned his medical degree in 1849. During his time in Germany, Kiefer was involved in the Revolution of 1848, which sought to establish a unified and democratic Germany.

Emigration to the United States

Following the failure of the revolution, Kiefer emigrated to the United States in 1850. He settled in Detroit, Michigan, where he quickly established himself as a prominent physician. Kiefer was deeply involved in the German-American community and became a leading figure in various cultural and social organizations.

Medical Career

Kiefer's medical career in Detroit was marked by his dedication to public health. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Detroit Health Department and served as its first health officer. Kiefer's efforts were crucial in combating outbreaks of infectious diseases such as cholera and smallpox in the city. He also advocated for improved sanitation and public health measures.

Political and Diplomatic Career

In addition to his medical work, Kiefer was active in politics. He was a member of the Republican Party and served as a delegate to several national conventions. Kiefer was appointed as the United States Consul to Stettin, Germany (now Szczecin, Poland) by President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1877, a position he held until 1881.

Legacy

Herman Kiefer's contributions to public health and his leadership in the German-American community left a lasting impact. The Herman Kiefer Hospital in Detroit, named in his honor, served as a major public health institution for many years. Kiefer's work in improving sanitation and combating infectious diseases set important precedents for public health practices in the United States.

See Also

• German-American
• Revolutions of 1848 in the German states
• Detroit
• Cholera
• Smallpox
• Republican Party (United States)
• Rutherford B. Hayes

Related Pages

• University of Freiburg
• University of Heidelberg
• Detroit Health Department
• Herman Kiefer Hospital