James Henry McLean

James Henry McLean (Missouri Congressman)

James Henry McLean (February 17, 1829 – May 17, 1886) was an American physician, inventor, and philanthropist known for his contributions to the medical field and the community of St. Louis, Missouri. McLean's work and philanthropy left a lasting impact on the city and the medical profession during the 19th century.

Early Life and Education

James Henry McLean was born in Guilford County, North Carolina to a family of Scottish descent. The McLean family moved to Missouri when James was a young boy. He pursued his early education in the local schools of Missouri before deciding to embark on a career in medicine. McLean attended medical school at the Missouri Medical College, which later became part of Washington University in St. Louis. After completing his medical degree, McLean furthered his studies by traveling to Europe, where he gained exposure to the latest medical practices and innovations of the time.

Career

Upon returning to the United States, Dr. McLean established his medical practice in St. Louis, where he quickly gained a reputation as a skilled and compassionate physician. His interests in medicine were broad, but he was particularly noted for his work in pharmacology and public health. McLean was an early advocate for the importance of sanitation and public health measures in preventing disease, a stance that was ahead of its time.

In addition to his medical practice, Dr. McLean was an inventor and entrepreneur. He developed and patented several medical devices and pharmaceuticals, some of which became widely used. His most notable invention was a type of patent medicine known as McLean's Volcanic Oil Liniment, which was marketed as a cure-all for various ailments. Despite the dubious efficacy of many patent medicines of the era, McLean's liniment was a commercial success.

Philanthropy

Dr. McLean's wealth from his medical practice and business ventures allowed him to become a significant philanthropist. He was particularly interested in the welfare of children and the poor. One of his most enduring contributions was the establishment of the McLean Asylum for the Insane in St. Louis, which provided care for mentally ill patients at a time when such facilities were scarce.

Legacy

James Henry McLean passed away on May 17, 1886, in St. Louis. His legacy is remembered through the institutions he supported and the advancements he made in the medical field. The McLean Asylum for the Insane has since evolved and no longer exists under that name, but McLean's contributions to medicine and public health continue to be recognized.

In honor of his contributions, several buildings and institutions in St. Louis bear his name, and his work in the fields of medicine and philanthropy is still celebrated.

See Also

• History of medicine
• Patent medicine
• Public health