Dr. Eagleson was a highly respected physician, surgeon, military officer and religious leader. James Beaty Eagleson (1862-1928) was born in Chillicothe, Ohio. Initially, James' parents encouraged him to pursue life as a minister. As a teenager though, James began studying medicine under the guidance of a local physician. In 1885, he graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Chicago. Following his studies, Eagleson interned at the U.S. Marine Hospital in Chicago before being sent across the country to practice in Port Townsend, Washington. By August, 1887, he was promoted to Acting Assistant Surgeon of the Marine Hospital Service in Seattle. During this time, Dr. Eagleson visited Providence and Grace Hospital’s to contract for medical treatment of seamen under the Marine Hospital Service, and entered into partnership with Dr. T. T. Minor. Dr. Eagleson achieved much throughout his career. He founded the medical journal of Northwest Medicine, was a charter member of King County Medical Society and the newly formed Washington State Medical Association, organized and headed Base Hospital 50 during World War I, and served on city and state public health boards. Dr. Eagleson died in Seattle in 1928.
Handwritten diaries of James Beaty Eagleson dated between 1882-1888. The diaries recount his daily life including his medical studies at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Chicago, his internship with the United States Marine Hospital, his trip across the country to his station at Port Townsend, WA, his move to Seattle where he worked with the United States Public Health Service, and his social and family life. The final diary also includes a list (written in a different hand) stating the birth dates, birthplaces, and death dates of Eagleson, his wife, and his 4 children. The collection also includes Eagleson's obituary, written in 1928 by Dr. O.F. Lamson and one copy of "The Sunbeam" Vol. XVII, No. 30 published by the Presbyterian Board of Publication and Sabbath School Work in 1891.
Open to all users.
Records stored offsite; advance notice required for use.
Creator's literary rights transferred to the University of Washington Libraries.
Donated by Jean Eagleson Williams, 4/11/1979.