Andrew Macphail
Andrew Macphail was a notable Canadian physician, writer, and editor, born in 1864 in Orwell, Prince Edward Island. After graduating from Prince of Wales College in 1882, he embarked on a career in education and later transitioned into medicine, teaching pathology at the University of Bishop's College in Montreal while maintaining a private practice. His editorial career began in 1907 when he became the editor of the Montreal Medical Journal, a role he held for three decades. During World War I, Macphail served in the military and attained the rank of general, contributing to his rich experience as a medical professional.
Following the death of his wife in 1902, Macphail turned to writing, producing works that included essays, historical novels, and military histories, including the well-received "The Vine of Simbah" and "Official History of the Canadian Forces in the Great War, 1914-1919: The Medical Service." Additionally, he explored poetry and contributed to anthologies, highlighting his versatility as a writer. Macphail's literary contributions reflect a keen engagement with the social and political issues of his time. He passed away in 1938, leaving behind an autobiography titled "The Master's Wife," published posthumously.
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Andrew Macphail
- Born: November 24, 1864
- Birthplace: Orwell, Prince Edward Island, Canada
- Died: September 23, 1938
Biography
Andrew Macphail was born in Orwell, Prince Edward Island, Canada, in 1864. He attended Prince of Wales College, graduating with honors in 1882. He then served as a teacher in various rural schools. In 1893, Macphail married Georgina Burland, with whom he had two children. That same year, Macphail began teaching pathology at the University of Bishop’s College in Montreal and maintained a private medical practice. In 1907, Macphail became editor of the Montreal Medical Journal, a position he held for thirty years. He also served as an editor of the Canadian Medical Association Journal and the influential University Magazine. Macphail spent five years in military service abroad during World War I, rising to the rank of general before returning to Canada.
Macphail began writing and publishing books after his wife died in 1902. His first published work was Essays in Puritanism, published in 1905. His next book, the novel The Vine of Simbah: A Relation of the Puritans, followed a year later. This historical romance was well received by critics and the public. Macphail’s next two books, published in 1909 and 1910, were collections of essays commenting on politics and society.
Fifteen years elapsed before the publication of Macphail’s next book, Official History of the Canadian Forces in the Great War, 1914-1919: The Medical Service. Commissioned by the Canadian General Staff, the book recounts tales of Canadian medics during World War I. This book was followed four years later by another military account, Three Persons, which examines three important figures from World War I: Sir Henry Wilson, Colonel E. M. House, and Colonel T. E. Lawrence. Although he is best remembered for his essays, Macphail also wrote poetry. Some of his work is published in The Book of Sorrow (1916), his collection of elegies and laments written by numerous poets, including Macphail himself. Macphail also contributed a lengthy biographical essay to In Flanders Fields, and Other Poems, a collection of work by his colleague and fellow physician, John McCrae. McPhail died in 1938. The following year, his autobiography, The Master’s Wife, was published.