William Chester Minor

American army surgeon and contributor to the Oxford English Dictionary

William Chester Minor (June 22, 1834 – March 26, 1920) was an American army surgeon and one of the largest contributors to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED). Despite his significant contributions to the OED, Minor's life was marked by mental illness and a tragic incident that led to his long-term confinement in a mental institution.

Early Life and Education

William Chester Minor was born in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) to American missionaries. He was sent to the United States for his education, where he attended the Yale School of Medicine, graduating with a degree in medicine. His early life was characterized by a strict religious upbringing and a strong emphasis on education.

Military Career

Dr. William Chester Minor

Minor joined the Union Army during the American Civil War and served as a surgeon. His experiences during the war, particularly his exposure to the horrors of battle and the treatment of wounded soldiers, had a profound impact on his mental health. After the war, he continued to serve in the army but began to show signs of mental instability.

Mental Health Struggles

Following his military service, Minor's mental health deteriorated. He suffered from paranoia and delusions, which eventually led to his discharge from the army. Seeking treatment, he traveled to London, where his condition worsened.

The Tragic Incident

In 1872, Minor shot and killed George Merrett, a man he believed was breaking into his room. He was arrested and found not guilty by reason of insanity. As a result, he was committed to the Broadmoor Hospital, a high-security psychiatric hospital in Berkshire, England.

Contributions to the Oxford English Dictionary

While confined at Broadmoor, Minor began contributing to the Oxford English Dictionary. He responded to a call for volunteers to help compile the dictionary by providing quotations and examples of word usage from his extensive personal library. His contributions were invaluable to the editors of the OED, particularly James Murray, who was unaware of Minor's circumstances for many years.

Life at Broadmoor

Minor lived in relative comfort at Broadmoor, where he had two rooms and access to his books. He corresponded regularly with the OED editors and continued his work on the dictionary. Despite his confinement, he maintained a degree of intellectual engagement and productivity.

Later Years and Death

In 1910, Minor was released from Broadmoor and returned to the United States, where he lived with his family in Connecticut. His mental health continued to decline, and he spent his final years in relative obscurity. William Chester Minor died on March 26, 1920.

Legacy

Minor's contributions to the Oxford English Dictionary are a testament to his intellect and dedication, despite the challenges he faced due to his mental illness. His story is a poignant reminder of the complex interplay between genius and madness.

Related Pages

• Oxford English Dictionary
• James Murray (lexicographer)
• Broadmoor Hospital
• American Civil War

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