Bernard John Dowling Irwin Papers

Collection

Identifier: MS C 232

Abstract

Collection contains reprints of articles written by Irwin and articles written about him and his career, biographical data, and photographs.

Dates

1850-1936

Extent

0.21 Linear Feet (1 box)

Creator

Irwin, Bernard John Dowling, 1830-1917 (Person)

Physical Location

Materials stored onsite. History of Medicine Division. National Library of Medicine

Language of Materials

Collection materials primarily in English

Restrictions

Collection is not restricted. Contact the Reference Staff for information regarding access.

Copyright and Re-use Information

NLM does not possess copyright to the collection. Archival collections often contain mixed copyrights; while NLM is the owner of the physical items, permission to examine collection materials is not an authorization to publish. These materials are made available for use in research, teaching, and private study. It is the user's responsibility to research and understand any applicable copyright and re-publication rights not allowed by fair use. NLM does not grant permissions to publish.

Privacy Information

Archives and manuscript collections may contain materials with sensitive or confidential information that is protected under federal or state right to privacy laws and regulations. Researchers are advised that the disclosure of certain information pertaining to identifiable living individuals represented in any collection without the consent of those individuals may have legal ramifications for which the National Library of Medicine assumes no responsibility.

Biographical Note

Bernard John Dowling Irwin was born in Ireland and emigrated to the United States while still a boy. He graduated from New York Medical College in 1852 and began his service in the U.S. Army as a surgeon in 1855. In February 1861, while stationed at Fort Buchanan, Arizona, he led troops against Chiricahua Indians at Apache Pass. He was awarded the Medal of Honor and gained the nickname "The Fighting Doctor" for his gallantry. During the Civil War, Irwin introduced the use of tent field hospitals at the battle of Shiloh in 1862. After the war he served as post surgeon to various posts in the American West. In 1892 he was appointed Assistant Surgeon General of the Army. He retired in 1894.