Thomas Richardson Colledge

British physician and medical missionary

Thomas Richardson Colledge and his assistant Afun in their ophthalmic hospital, Macau, 1833

Thomas Richardson Colledge (11 June 1796 – 28 October 1879) was a British physician and medical missionary known for his pioneering work in ophthalmology and his contributions to the medical field in China during the 19th century. He was instrumental in the establishment of Western medical practices in the region and played a significant role in the development of medical missions.

Early Life and Education

Thomas Richardson Colledge was born in Penzance, Cornwall, England. He pursued his medical education at the University of Edinburgh, where he graduated with a degree in medicine. His early exposure to the medical field and his interest in ophthalmology set the stage for his future endeavors in Asia.

Career in China

In 1825, Colledge joined the East India Company as a surgeon and was stationed in Macau, a Portuguese colony in China. During his time in Macau, he recognized the dire need for medical services, particularly in the field of ophthalmology, due to the prevalence of eye diseases in the region.

Ophthalmic Hospital

Dr. Colledge's Eye Hospital in Macau

In 1827, Colledge established an ophthalmic hospital in Macau, which was one of the first Western-style medical facilities in China. The hospital provided free medical care to the local population, focusing on the treatment of eye diseases. Colledge's work in the hospital laid the groundwork for future medical missions in China and inspired other physicians to follow in his footsteps.

Contributions to Medical Missions

Colledge was a founding member of the Medical Missionary Society of China, established in 1838. The society aimed to promote Western medical practices and provide medical education in China. Colledge's efforts in the society helped to bridge the gap between Western and Eastern medical practices and facilitated the exchange of medical knowledge.

Later Life and Legacy

After retiring from his position in Macau, Colledge returned to England, where he continued to advocate for medical missions. He remained actively involved in the Medical Missionary Society and supported various initiatives to improve healthcare in China.

Thomas and Caroline Colledge

Colledge passed away on 28 October 1879, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and dedication to the field of medicine. His work in China paved the way for future generations of medical missionaries and contributed significantly to the development of modern medical practices in the region.

Related Pages

• Medical Missionary Society of China
• Ophthalmology
• East India Company
• Macau