Walter Webb Allport

American dentist and dental educator

Walter Webb Allport (1824–1893) was a pioneering American dentist and a significant figure in the development of dentistry as a profession in the United States. He was instrumental in advancing dental education and was a founding member of several key dental organizations.

Early life and education

Walter Webb Allport was born in 1824. Details about his early life are sparse, but it is known that he pursued a career in dentistry at a time when the field was still in its infancy. He received his dental education during a period when formal training was not as structured as it is today.

Career

Allport began his dental practice in Chicago, Illinois, where he quickly became a prominent figure in the local medical community. His contributions to dentistry were not limited to his practice; he was deeply involved in the establishment of dental societies and educational institutions.

Contributions to dental education

Allport was a strong advocate for the formalization of dental education. He believed that dentistry should be recognized as a distinct profession, separate from general medicine, and that it required specialized training. To this end, he was involved in the founding of the Chicago Dental Society and played a key role in the establishment of the American Dental Association.

Professional organizations

Walter Webb Allport was a founding member of the American Dental Association (ADA), which was established in 1859. The ADA aimed to promote the art and science of dentistry and to improve the public's oral health. Allport's involvement in the ADA helped to set standards for dental practice and education that are still in place today.

Legacy

Allport's legacy in the field of dentistry is marked by his commitment to education and professional development. He was a pioneer in advocating for the recognition of dentistry as a vital component of healthcare. His efforts laid the groundwork for the modern dental profession.

Death and burial

Walter Webb Allport passed away in 1893. He is buried at Graceland Cemetery in Chicago, a resting place for many of the city's notable figures.

Grave of Walter Webb Allport at Graceland Cemetery, Chicago

Related pages

• American Dental Association
• Chicago Dental Society
• Dentistry