> >5fc .. J > .■» ' ■ _^BJ .» >? 3S 3> > l^p . » > > ,.** » ^ J ci -* ^ > J ^ ?> ^^ > .» ^ Oft ^^ ^O 3>> * *^r >^ ) > ?» , » «^ *jt-"' -» ■> ^> 3>"g* ^ 3^ ~? ° *f • » •-> -..'-V ■ *S v» ^ ^ j^/*i^ 3»>^ > ■■' ">» » *v. ' V,k """V 1Y1 > ">J? > ^^ .-*F J £^ ' -J> >> >» -<*,.£%' "!>■>» > ~>t* 3 v)j ' }) >•» > >^ ' -»>> S ,:> *» ^ ;V* ! » a- J' J* Ioji 3$ >> % >?> ^ ±*r ac.-'il ■i-. » ■"» » 53 > X 5> . "» *• j> j?' V> 3">*3i ?> ^* c? » ■» y ^ "■? ■ V -^ »> -sr ■ > .) > 5 ) •> > -> > • » > -r - 3 "> >oZ» )><= > 5 ' 9 "> > • >jf> y )£ 5 "> > 5 >>5 g- > > ">> ■^p ^ ■ "> ) ■Q-C-D GOO-QOQC ;-QrU , L i.ih. r-lcEnifr C/w--l eftoan. &047'jt, INTRODUCTORY LECTURE, DELIVERED AT THE OPENING OF THE SESSION OF THE MEDICAL COLLEGE OK S. CAROLINA, ON THE SECOND MONDAY IN NOVEMBER, 18 3 7, BY THOMAS Y. gIMONS, M. D. DEAN OF THE FACULTY; PROFESSOR OF THE THEORY AND PRACTICE OF PHYSIC IN THE MEDICAL COLLEGE OF 6. CAROLINA, EXTRAORDINARY MEMBER OF THE ROYAL PHYSICAL SOCIETY OF EDINBURGH, AND EX-PRESIDENT OF THE MEDICAL SOCIETY OF SOOTH-CAROLINA. PUBLISHED BY THE STUDENTS. CHARLESTON: PRINTED BY E. C. COUNCELL. 183 8. 858 Charleston, November 14th, 1837. At a meeting of the Students of the Medical College of South Carolina, convened this day, On motion, Mr. Fourgeauci, of Charleston, was called to the Chair, and Mr. J. F. Moreland, of Georgia, was requested to act as Secretary. On motion of Mr. Lav.rence L. Cohen, of Charleston, seconded by Mr. J. Ashurst, of Georgia, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted: Resolved, That this meeting, having a high appreciation of the learning and talents of Dr. Simons, as developed in his Introductory Lecture before the Class of the Medical College of South Carolina, and anxious to place it in a more CDduring form, than our grateful remembrances will enable us to do respectfully request a copy of the same for publication. Resolved, That a Committee of three be appointed to carry the above into effect. The Chair then appointed the following gentlemen, to constitute the Committee—Mr. Lawrence L. Cohen, of Charleston; Mr. Ashurst, of Georgia, and Mr. D. F. Nardin, of Charleston. On motion, the Chairman was added to the Committee. The meeting then adjourned. J. F. MORELAND, Secretary. Charleston, November 15th, 1337. Esteemed Sir, The pleasing duty of conveying to you the proceedings of the above meeting, has been delegated to us, and we avail ourselves of this opportunity of expressing to you the renewed assurances of our individual high consideration and respect. Very sincerely, Your obedient servants, LAWRENCE L. COHEN, of Charleston. J. ASHURST. of Georgia. D. F. NARDIN, of Charleston. V. FOURGEAUD, of Charleston. To Dr. THOMAS V. SIMONS, Professor Theory and Practice of Medicine. 1 Charleston, November 21st, IK57. Gentlemen, I received your very kind note, with the too flattering resolution* of the Students of the Medical College of South Carolina, whom you represent. I postponed my reply so long as there was a conflict be- tween my own feelings and your desire. I hesitated to publish, because, already, I have published, by request, several medical addresses, wherein 'here must necessarily be some identity of thought, although differently expressed, and different views have been taken; and furthermore, as I do not (and it is no affectation of modesty,) believe it worthy of the honor. But to dissent would be to disoblige, or appear ungrateful for the honor conferred, I therefore acquiesce. There is one thing that has gratified me, and it is that you have estimated in a proper light the candid manner in which I have addressed you. I did not wish to display learning, or excite your admiration by an ornate and elaborate essay. I desired alone to give you a common sense address, to guide you in the path of medical knowledge; and if this has been accomplished, I am satisfied. I pray you to accept for yourselves, and extend to the Students my thanks for their good opinion, and my sincere wish for your and their future prospe- rity and usefulness. TIIOS. Y. SIMONS. To Messrs. Cohen, Ashurst, Nardin, and Fourgeaud. LECTURE. Gentlemen, It becomes my duty, at the opening of this session of our College, and in accordance with the request of my colleagues, to deliver an Introductory Lecture, explain- ing and impressing upon you the importance of the different branches of studies, which are comprised in a medical education. In the discharge of this trust, I must be explicit and candid. I feel it incumbent upon me, therefore, to state, in the commencement, abrupt as it may seem, and startling as the fact may be, that many young physicians come forward as practitioners, incompetent to the discharge of the offices of their profession, from a want of practical knowledge, the opportunities for obtaining which they have neglected; and so ignorant of the sciences with which it is associated, as to render it almost impossible for them hereafter to receive much benefit either from observation or experience. Nay, further, that many aspire more to the attainment of a medical degree, than that acquisition of knowledge which can alone make a degree valuable or useful. It is, hence, a high sense of moral obligation on my part, to prove to you the great importance, and to impress upon you the necessity, as well as high moral obligation on your parts, to obtain a proper knowledge of those branches of medical studies which are necessary to form an accomplished, useful, and good practical physician. 0 The study of medicine, like the other learned pro- fessions, is entered upon, oftentimes, too lightly. From false delicacy, or want of independence, or some other cause, young gentlemen commencing any one of the learned professions, are not always fully apprised, by their preceptors, of the great difficulties which lay be- fore them, of the important influence these professions have upon communities, of their heavy responsibilities! and the indispensable necessity to concentrate their minds, and devote all their energies to the acquirement of knowledge. How, many, if we look around, have we not seen of incompetent physicians, lawyers, and divines, who have not only wasted away their lives, that in some other pursuit might have made them val- uable members of society, but have thrown a dishonor upon those important and noble avocations. In addressing you, gentlemen, in the onset, thus frankly, and speaking thus boldly the truth, which is seldom welcome, or, at least, is not so enticing as the honeyed tongue of flattery, it may be ascribed to undue asperity, or an unreasonable expectation of the acquire- ments of those who are to become candidates for a de- gree in medicine. But this is not so. I believe that he who is an instructor, is only a true friend when he points out to youth the dangers which he has to encounter, and prepares him to contend with them. Be this as it may, I am actuated alone by a conscientious conviction of the solemn duty I have to discharge. I feel, as a Professor, the highest moral obligation. I feel that my duty to this Institution, and to the community at large, demands of me to warn you against commencing the study of a profession so highly responsible as the one in which you are now about to be engaged, without a full 7 determination to use all your exertious, and take ad- vantage of all the opportunities presented for medical instruction. I am further induced thus boldly to address you, from the sincere regard I entertain for your future welfare, and the deep interest I feel in the dignity, the honor, and the usefulness of the medical profession. I wish it to continue to be, what it always has been considered, a learned profession, composed of men of intellectual at- tainment, and high toned principles of virtue and honor, and not a trade, the whole object of the pursuit of which is the desire of gaining money, not reputation. In the remarks which I have made, think not that I mean to cast any reflection upon the medical character. I am proud to say that we have many who do honor to their profession, and who have elevated the medical character of our country by their researches and wri- tings, as well as by their professional skill. But it can- not be disguised that their usefulness is too often curtailed, and in some instances almost destroyed by the unworthy and ignorant. That their high toned feel- ings, their sense of the respect due to their profession, their uncompromising adherence to the principles of etiquette, founded upon the nicest principles of justice and gentlemanly deportment—their spurning to obtain professional business by any other means than what their good name and reputation may command, often cause them to be misunderstood and unappreciated by the mass of a community. And hence we have found in the biography of medical men, that great merit, in many instances, has been comparatively neglected, while the ignorant have obtained great patronage, "A physician," says Dr. Johnson, " in a great city, 8 seems to be the mere plaything of fortune ; his degree of reputation is for the most part totally casual; those that employ him know not his excellence ; they that reject him know not his deficience. By any accurate observer, who had looked upon the transac- tions of the medical world, for half a century, a very curious book might be written on the fortunes of physi- cians." These are the observations of one, distin- guished as a moralist, who lived in a large metro- polis ; and no doubt embody much truth. But if the scientific do not always become popular, they are always respected in the circle in which they move, and are most beloved where best known. They seek the estimation and confidence of those who can justly ap- preciate them, and value their reputation and their character as above all price. I have made these remarks, to convince all of you that moral and intellectual worth is superior to all the tinsil of mere popular eclat, and to warn the stu- dent of genius and attainment, unaided by patronage or friends, or family influence, who is slow in obtaining public confidence, from falling into despair. It is true, that, to use the beautiful allegory of the poet Gray— " Full many a flower is born to blush unseen, And waste its sweetness on the desert air." Yet, perseverance and industry, associated with moral excellence, will make the child of poverty rise above all difficulties, and place him, ultimately, upon that eleva- ted position, which, from his intellectual powers, he is entitled to occupy. How many beautiful and sublime evidences have we of this in our free and glorious coun- try ? How many d«es history tell us of in monarchical D «uid despotic governments? I could, gentlemen, accu- mulate an immense mass of evidence, to impress upon you the imperative necessity of your using every exer- tion for the attainment of all the knowledge in your power, to perform the duties of a physician. But in conclusion of this part of our subject, I beg leave to say, that the solemn responsibilities of those who are to superintend the lives of their fellow beings, and correct or ameliorate the diseases to which they are so often painfully subjected—setting aside all worldly conside- rations, as fame, honor, reputation, wealth, are suffi- cient to urge every conscientious and honorable mind to unwearied and untiring efforts to perform, faithfully, his trust. Having made these prefatory remarks, in which I can only be influenced by a conscientious sense of duty, and a sincere wish for your welfare and useful- ness. I will now proceed, succinctly, to give you my views of the importance of those branches of know- ledge which are comprised in a medical education. In former times, indeed, until a late period, and the plan is still generally pursued, no individual presumed to commence the study of any one of the learned professions without having a knowledge of the Greek and Latin languages, and especially the latter. From the revival of learning, until very nearly the termination of the last century, the Latin language was the common me- dium of communication among the learned throughout the continent of Europe and America; and hence, all the principal works were written in that language. However, to use a Latin phrase—" Tempora mutantur et nos mutamur cumillis." The best authors now write in their vernacular tongue, and although I would 10 be far from coinciding with those innovators, or reform- ers who would be disposed to regard as useless the stu- dy of these languages; the necessity of their knowledge it must be admitted is considerably lessened, in conse- quence of the best works of the ancient classics being ably translated. There are others, perhaps, of more im- portance—of these an attainment of the French and Ger- man, in which are embodied in our more modern times an immense mass of medical and scientific knowledge, and which have not, in our system of general educa- tion, commanded that attention which they ought to do, are deserving of your particular attention and study. The importance of a general knowledge at least, of literature and science, is so self-evident, as to require but little comment. It is not reasonable to suppose that any one would devote himself to a pursuit profess- edly learned—ignorant of so much of literature and science, as would sustain the character and respectabili- ty of his profession. It is evident that a physician acquainted only with the art of medicine, (if I may be allowed so to express myself,) unaided by the diffusive light and influence of literature and science, is at best a mere practitioner. If all physicians had been thus ignorant, how could the profession have so progres- sively advanced ? It would have been stationary, and would have gone on age after age, as the inferior ani- mals in their habits and pursuits, with neither altera- tion nor improvement. In all countries where litera- ture and science have been in a low condition, so has been medicine, and it has been proportionally enlarged, improved and elevated with these two branches of knowledge. 11 The system of medical instruction which is adopted in this College, in common with most others, is Anato- my by Lectures, and Practical Demonstration; Insti- tutes of Medicine and Materia Medica; Chemistry ; Obstetrics and Diseases of Women and Children; Surgery; Theory and Practice of Medicine, and Clinics. I shall, therefore, bring to your view in a condensed form, the respective importance of each—for it is our desire to have you receive from us practical know- ledge, that may be useful to you when you are thrown upon your own rest-;.• ces—and to prepare you tho- roughly in those elementary principles of medical at- tainment, which you may afterwards enlarge upon, with honor to yourselves, and usefulness to your fellow beings. The first subject of consideration is that of Anatomy, or the structure of the human frame. I will not arrest your attention with the interest which must be necessa- rily excited in the study of the human frame, the most perfect of all organizations, as an inducement to your faithful devotion to its attainment—but will press upon you its absolute necessity, if you expect to alleviate the diseases to which it is perpetually liable from physi- cal and moral exciting causes. What is the object of Medicine and Surgery, but to ascertain the derange- ments which exist in the organization, deviating from from its healthy and natural function, with a view to prescribe remedial agents? And how are you to accom- plish this unless you understand that organization, the relation of its parts, its peculiar offices, their relative importance in carrying on the functions of life, and the effect which the derangement of one organ may have upon some, or all parts of the human system—which, 12 in all its details, and as a combined whole, exhibits the most wonderful manifestation of divine wisdom and power. The mere statement of the fact makes it self- evident, without entering into useless and tedious il- lustrations. We have abundant remedies, and the savage, as well as the civilized, possess them—the ig- norant, as well as the intelligent. There is not an old nurse or a mountebank, who cannot give you a remedy for every disease. But mark the distinction—the one who understands the structure of the human frame, its relations, and its functions, can approximate something to a certainty from a concatenation of evidences and inference, drawn therefrom, of what parts are primarily affected, and the effects upon other organs, and is thus led to adopt upon inductive principles; such remedial agents as may prevent their producing the destruction of life—the other is governed altogether by chance, and is mechanical in all his practice. Among the an- cients there was by certain sects a great deal of ridicu- lous wrangling, as related to the utility of a knowledge of Anatomy, but in our present time, when we feel the immense influence of anatomical investigation and physiological enquiry, and the valuable lights which have been thrown upon the character- of diseases by pathological research, and the nice diagnosis which we have been thus enabled to form of diseases—a doubt of its value, as relates to medicine, cannot be for a mo- ment seriously discussed. But if it is so important to the physician, how much greater, if it be possible to be greater, to the surgeon. Who can pretend to be a sur- geon who does not understand Special Anatomy, by which we mean the minute structure of the sys- tem ? How can you operate upon any portion of the 13 organization, if you do not know what arteries, or nerves, or muscles, are there situated, unless with the risk of the destruction of the life of the individual ? The man who would venture to do so ought to be con- sidered in the light of a murderer, and I must be excused for using so strong, but so justifiable a term. But yet so important and essential, so indispensable as the knowledge of Anatomy confessedly is, it is ama- zing how much it has been neglected by many students, and how superficially studied. You have abundant op- portunities here for the study and attainment of this all-important branch of medical knowledge. From the Professor of Anatomy great instruction will cer- tainly be derived, but you must not depend on this alone—you must go into the dissecting room, and there by assiduous attention and practical' study, you will not only become familiarly acquainted with all the component parts of the human frame, but likewise learn the proper use of the knife, which will give you confidence and skill in the performance of surgical operations. It must be borne in mind, that the oppor- tunities now afforded cannot, when you enter into prac- tice be easily renewed—and believe me, withou' atten- tion to this department, your labors for medical attainment and distinction will be comparatively in vain. Next to the study of Anatomy, is that of Phy- siology—Anatomy is a knowledge of the structure of organization—Physiology is a knowledge of the vital functions of that organization, a beautiful and sublime study, which, it is true, is not reduced to any thing like positive precision, but yet approximating so far, (regu- lated by inductive reasoning,) as to contribute im- mensely to the illustration of medical knowledge. 14 Anatomy and Physiology form the basis of pathologi- cal attainment. It is impossible that you can have any idea of the functions of the organization, unless you understand that organization. Physiology, therefore, is based on a knowledge of Anatomy. Nor can you understand the morbid alterations either in function or structure, constituting disease in its varied and oftentimes com- plicated form, without a knowledge of Anatomy and Physiology. Acquainted with these, you are in a con- nected link with proper observation and inquiry, led to pathological knowledge, and this is mainly to be ob- tained by attending the hospitals, observing the phe- nomena presented during the progress of disease, and if death ensues, the condition of the organs as exhibited by post mortem examinations. To facilitate your stu- dies in this important branch of a medical education, the Hospitals which are under the control of this Col- lege, have been so arranged as to render them highly useful—and here I may, perhaps, most properly urge upon you what I must confess has been too often most extraordinarily neglected, a proper attention at the Hospitals—there you will receive a practical illustra- tion of the principles taught at the Lectures—there you will learn the means of investigating and ascertaining disease—there you will obtain that instruction which all the Lectures, however ably given, cannot alone af- ford. To depart from an institution with a mere theoretical knowledge, without practical information, is not the way to perform honestly and faithfully your duty, nor calculated to insure to you confidence in a community, nor success in practice. The Hospitals are opened to 15 you free of all expense, and opportunities of instruc- tion will be afforded you in the daily visits of the re- spectable physicians connected with those institutions, and in Clinics, by the Professors of Medicine and Surgery. We are desirous of makingthese institutions available as far as possible. The Infirmary connected with this institution will likewise afford you additional opportunities. The study of Materia Medica, which forms a con- necting link in a medical education, is an inquiry into the character, property, and peculiar action of various agents in the animal, vegetable and mineral kingdoms, and their adaptation for correcting or obviating the morbid derangements of the system. The observation, research and experiments of ages, have accumulated an immense mass of valuable medi- cal agents, and the great point is to ascertain how these should be properly applied, and their modus operandi. Its importance you will, therefore, readily perceive— and if you do not understand this, all your other know- ledge will be practically of no avail. We are next to bring to your view the science of Chemistry, a branch of education regarded of so much importance, as to be made a part of the system of study in all Ijiterary Institutions. The immense contributions which Chemical investigations have made to the arts and powers of civilized man—the sublime philosophical principles which it unfolds and explains, exhibiting to us the various constituent principles, and their varied combinations, forming all those multiplied masses constituting the Globe—its intimate relation with all departments of physical knowledge, are strong and irresistible inducements to its study, by any one in 16 the slightest degree imbued with a love of philosophy> But this is an incentive to (very scholar and gentleman. The knowledge of it to you is more imperative—■ Chemistry and Pharmacy are closely associated; with- out a knowledge of the former, you cannot understand the latter—and without a knowledge of Pharmacy, you will be ignorant of the properties and character of some of our most valuable medicines. Every physician in the south has to keep his own medicines, and may be- come an Apothecary—under such circumstances, a stu- dy of Chemistry is indispensable. There is one other reason I will urge—ours is a growing country, con- stantly developing its immense resources,—a know- ledge of Chemistry, Geology, and Mineralogy, will be of great importance in making discoveries of the different character of soils, minerals, and rocks, and how they may be appropriated to useful purposes. The properties of mineral springs, those everlasting fountains of nature's restoratives, for many of the dis- eases of mankind—and which in ancient, as well as modern times, were, and are so much treasured, may likewise thus be ascertained. It is strange that a sci nee presenting so many fascinations for the philo- sophic mind, and opening so wide a field for practical usefulness, should, among the students of our country generally, excite so little attention—I could wish, and do trust, it will soon be otherwise. The next branch of medical education for our con- sideration, is that of Obstetrics, and the Diseases of Women and Children. Were I disposed to give way to my feelings, I might appal you with a description of the frightful effects which have been produced upon the fairer portion of our race from ignorance and mal- 17 treatment. Not only have many valuable lives been sac- rificed, but painful and loathsome diseases have ensued, causing the lovely and unhappy individuals, to drag out lives of misery and pain. In a savage state, nature is left to perform unaided her functions. But in civilized society, where females are reared with so much tender- ness and care, that " the winds of Heaven are not allowed to visit them too roughly"—they require skill and at- tention. From false delicacy or prejudice, too many cases of this kind are thrown into the hands of females, who when any danger or difficulty occurs, are seldom able to meet the trying exigency. Under such circum- stances the physician is called upon to give the aid of his scientific and practical knowledge ; and if he is unpre- pared and incapable, how deplorable must be his con- dition, how appalling his situation. There.is no time for deliberation, instantaneous and efficient action is required—and if wanting, not only his reputation is gone, but what is still more sad, the unhappy sufferer becomes the victim. Picture to your minds a lovely female, surrounded by all that is endearing in conjugal affection, with tender offspring hanging around, watch- ing anxiously for the safety of a beloved wife and mother, in the perils of child bed. Nature has failed to perform her offices—art is required to save her and her young babe from destruction—and he who is sol- emnly bound from his profession, and declares to the world his capability, is unable, from his ignorance, to save either from their perilous condition! What would be, or ought to be the feelings of a mind inspired with the most ordinary feelings of humanity, under such a trying scene? It would be idle to answer, and it 3 18 would be worse than idle to say more, to prove to you the solemn duty imposed on you, to prepare yourselves to meet such emergencies. Of Surgery, another branch of your medical studies, I shall be brief in my observations. In barbarous times the profession of surgery was strangely degraded, and has only been elevated in modern times to that distinguished rank to which it is justly entitled. To be a surgeon, it is not to be supposed that you must be a mere operator. A good operator, skilful, expert, and thoroughly acquainted with anatomy, is very useful—useful, however, only so far as he combines with it a discriminating mind, and is thoroughly imbued with a knowledge of his profession. An ignorant, skilful operator, unless he has a mentor constantly at his side, which is not always practicable, I conscien- tiously believe, does infinitely more harm than good. Conscious that his whole power and reputation depend upon the management of his knife, he will frequently be led into useless, rash, and unwarrantable operations, which, while they injure the patient, may redound tem- porarily to his own renown. A great and. signal ope- ration oftentimes introduces mere manipulators into reputation, of which they are wholly undeserving. But where medical and operative surgery are combined in one individual, it is the surest and the quickest road to permanent eminence and success. The effects of sur- gical relief are more immediately observed rnd judged of by mankind, and hence a good surgec:; in our country is as a matter of course, very speedih ducted likewise into medical practice, although this should not necessarily follow. A mere operator, however, will 19 sooner or later find his proper level. I need scarce, here, in conclusion, reiterate that no one can presume to be a surgeon who is not an anatomist, a knowledge of which is so imperative. Having thus endeavored to impress upon you the importance of the several branches of medical educa- tion to be taught by my respected colleagues, which they will more ably and fully illustrate. I will conclude with some remarks on the branch which it is my duty to teach. There is, perhaps, no department of knowledge, where opinions of doctrine and practice are more con- tradictory than in the medical; and hence, if the satirist has often railed at the "glorious uncertainty of the law," medicine has shared no better fate. They both rest upon the science, the knowledge, the practical good sense, the comprehensive view, and the discrimi- nating and taialytical powers of those who pursue them, and hence upon this their beneficial or pernicious influ- ence depend. Theorists and enthusiasts, full of wild speculations, are found in both ; and yet the value and necessity of each is constantly felt, and required. In medicine we have had, in all ages, two extremes—one class who are speculative theorists, endowed with great genius and enthusiasm, who, with a noble zeal hope to raise a system which will supersede all others, and accomplish all that is desired. Although led into many extravagancies and many inaccuracies, their labors have not been in vain. They have added something to the stock of general knowledge. We have others, again, on the other hand, of plain, common practical sense, who, averse to all systems of speculation, rest alone upon minute observation and practical experi- 20 rnce. These are often led into equally erroneous opinions. They are always limited in their views, and indiscriminating in their practice. But yet they have accumulated in detail much useful and valuable know- ledge. The desideratum lies between the two, and the acquirement of this depends upon the capability of the individual to view with calmness, and patiently analyze and test both theories and practical observation. The physician must bear in mind that medicine can never be ranked among the exact sciences. He must bring to his aid all the lights which are aftbrded him, reflect upon the causes which continually modify disease, en- quire into the character, habits, temperament, age, and the peculiar condition of the organization, which set at defiance any fixed and unerring rules of practice. I have known many learned and scientific physicians who from want of the power of discrimination and observa- tion, and promptness of decision, were far from being successful or practical. I have known many, compara- tively unscientific physicians, prove more successful from practice and observation, although they were ex- tremely empirical. To be, then, a great physician, is like being a great judge, each must have all the knowledge and the lights afforded, and a something beyond this, a power, gift, or tact, arising from sound discrimination and good common sense. Such men have been most eminent and practically useful in their day and generation, and yet they have catered upon the labors of others, and generally leave few evidences to account for their great reputation. The theory and practice of medicine are dependent upon a knowledge of anatomy, physiology and patho- 21 logy. These, as I have already stated, are indispen- sable. By these we learn the means of ascertaining the character and nature of disease, and by a knowledge of materia medica, we understand the means of applying the proper remedial agents. To learn how to apply this knowledge practically, you must attend to clinical in- struction. For in clinics all of these are brought fully to your view and observation. Having occupied so much of your time, I must defer my exposition of the course I intend to pursue to another occasion. Gentlemen, our institution is established upon no sel- fish consideration ; we envy not, we desire not to lessen the success of others. We have been called upon by our peers, the members of the Medical Society, to per- form a high and responsible duty—a society founded by our forefathers, securing to us great and important rights, and which has been the regulator of the medical code of our state. We are proud to be the represent- atives of such a corporation ; we will not speak of our our own capabilities, that would be indelicate; we will endeavor faithfully to discharge our trust, and leave it to others to decide upon our merits. We have made ourselves free offerings on the altar of science ; we have had bright examples of men of dis- tinguished eminence, who were not discouraged by the few to whom they had to impart their knowledge, and we will endeavor to emulate their noble elevation of character. We have encountered many difficulties, many pop- ular and political prejudices*—we have borne them, we trust, with firmness, and have gone on steadily and * See Appendix. 22 unmoved. Pecuniary gain has been but a secondary consideration with us. We had a higher object in view—the sustaining the superintending control of a medical school, in the body which first organised it. We will yield to none, in our devotion in promoting the moral and intellectual elevation of our profession, and in upholding the institutions of the South with which we have been always identified in feeling and action. The life, gentlemen, of a physician is a life of self- sacrifice, full of cares, trials and heavy responsibilities; but an useful and honorable life, and one, the duties of which, if faithfully performed, not withstanding the ingra- titude to which it is liable, in common with all pur- suits, and the agonizing and painful diseases to which it is exposed, bears with it much of honor, respect and heartfelt thanks and affection. A scientific, virtuous, conscientious and sensible physician is a benefactor to his race and generation, and I pray God that all of you may become such. APPE NDIX. In presenting to the public a list of the Students of the Medical College of South Carolina, it has been deemed advisable to make a few explanatory observations, to prevent misapprehension, and to counteract misrepresentation. When the former Professors withdrew from this institu- tion, those who were elected to fill their stations, commenced the performance of their duties under the most disadvanta- geous circumstances. The College was organised, only a few months before the commencement of the session. Sev- eral gentlemen from the north were engaged as Professors, at a time when political excitement was very great. This circumstance called forth severe and illiberal attacks from several presses of the interior, and every advantage was taken of political prejudices and passions. Our opponents had sent forth a large number of medical gentlemen, their graduates and students, throughout this and the neighboring states, who sent their pupils to them. Hence, during the first year, our College had but seven students. Under these circumstances the native Professors had to put the College in repair at their own expence; a new roof being required to save the builduig, which had been left in a dilapidated condition by those who previously had charge of it. They likewise paid two of the northern Professors $1800, which the Medical Society was bound to pay, but which they assumed. Independent of this, considerable additions and improvements were made to the Chemical Labratory. 2\ Undismayed by so inauspicious a beginning—the resigna* lion of the northern Professors—the general opinion that the College would have to close, and the constant annoyance which they received from their opponents in the Medical Society, the Faculty determined to persevere, and the Board of Trustees having filled the vacant chairs, the second session opened with twelve students; the third session with eighteen; at the fourth with twcnty-tico, and at the present with the list subjoined, showing a slow but progres- sive increase under great disadvantages, heavy expences, and slender compensation. All of the present Professors are now resident physicians and practitioners of Charleston, and there is no longer any just ground for the rumor that the College can not continue to progress. It is not our intention by these remarks to excite any unpleasant feelings, on the part of those connected with a rival institution. The period of excitement, we trust, has gone by, and we hope that in the place of detraction will be substituted an honorable spirit of emulation, and that the only contest between us will be, as to which shall most largely contribute to the advancement of science and knowledge, and the elevation of the character of the medical profession. We have been compelled to make these remarks in conse- quence of certain statements made by a Professor of the opposing College, (who we believed to be a gentleman endowed with great sensibility, and remarkable for nicety of professional etiquette,) in an address on medical education in South Carolina, at Columbia, before a society for the pro- motion of literature and science, composed of men of all parties in the state. That gentleman embraced that oppor- tunity not only of commending his own institution, (of which we complain not,) but also of detracting from ours, and accused us of allowing the building erected by donations from the city and state, to fall into decay, which we have shown is not the case, and of which we have a right to com- plain. The gentleman to whom we allude is Dr. James 23 Moultrie. His accusation was refuted and repelled by Dr. Whitridge, in his charge to the graduating class of the last vear, in compliance with a resolution to that effect, passed by the Society. We are willing to leave the accusation of Dr, James Moultrie, to the judgment of any impartial tribunal. We have entered upon our duties with a single eye to prin- ciple—our opponents may have acted from the same impulse. We do not envy them their success ; we have no desire to pluck from them one laurel which may encircle their brows. We are resolved to go on steadily and perseveringly, and will endeavor to be co-laborators in the great cause of medi- aal and scientific knowledge. OFFICE R « UEDiCAL COLLEGE OF ^OFTH-CAROLINA J. B. WHITRIDGE, M. I). Ex-Officio President. TRUSTEES. B. B. SIMONS, M. D. J. C. W. McDONALD, M. D JOSEPH GLOVER, M. D. JOHN GRIMKE, M. D. THOMAS AIKEN, M. D. V. LESEIGNEUR, M. D- E. W. NORTH, M. D EDWARD NORTH, M. D. ELIAS HORLBEOK. M. D. A. E. GADSDEN, M. D. HENRY BOYEESTON, M D. D. D. GRAVES. M. D. F A C E E T Y . B. B. STROBEL, M. D. Professor of Anatomy. ELIAS HORRY DEAS, M. D. Professor of Surgery. THOMAS Y. SIMONS, M. D. Professor of Theory and Practice of Medicine- HENRY ALEXANDER, M. D. Professor of Inst, of Medicine, and Materia Medica. WM. HUME, M . D. Professor of Chemistry and Pharmacy. FRANCIS Y. PORCHER, M. D. Professor of Obstetrics and Diseases of Women and Children. A. G. MACKEY, M. D. Demonstrator of Anatomy. I»EAI\ Ol l'ACEETY. THOMAS Y. SIMONS, M. D. LIST OK STUDENTS ATTENDING THE MEDICAL COLLEGE OF SOUTH-CAROLINA FOR THE YEARS 1837—8. Names of Students. Abbott, S. B. Ashurst, Josiah, Bensadon, Joseph, Ball, Keating, Breedon, C. S. Bonneau, Peter P. Cohen, Jacob, jr. Cohen, Lawrence L. Cook, Robert, Cavallo, S. M. Dawson, Theodore, Dawson, J. E. Fourgeaud, Victor, Gordon, F. D. Harth, John, Huson, Winfield, King, S. F. Moreland, John F. Nardin, D. F. Oberhausser, John, Palmer, Samuel, Sams, F. W. Shecut, W. H. Schwartz, Sebastian, Simons, James, Walpole, G. I. R. Wood, J. L. Yates, J. Yates, Rev. Win. Where from. Charleston, S. C. Jasper county, Ga. Charleston, S. C. do. do. do. do. Pineville, do. Georgetown, do. Charleston, do. do. do. do. do. do. do. do. do. do. do. do. do. Orangeburgh, do. Henry county, Ga. St. Pauls, S. C. Jasper county, Ga. Charleston, S. C. Germany, Pineville, S. C. Beaufort, do. Charleston, do. Afken, do. Charleston, do. do. do. Charleston, S. C. do. do. do. do. Preceptors' Names. B. B. Strobel, M. D. R. C. Clayton, M. D. B. B. Strobel, M.D. B. B. Simons, M. D. P. M. Cohen, M. D. Elias Horlbeck, M. D. B. B. Strobel, M. D. P. M. Cohen, M. D. A. G. Mackey, M. D- B. B. Strobel, M. D. Thos. Y. Simons, M. D. I. M. Campbell, M. D. Thos. Y. Simons, M. D. F. Y. Porcher, M. D. Dr. J. W. Schmidt Win. Herdman, N. C. F. Y. Porcher, M. D. R. A. T. Ridley, M. D. B.B. Strobel, M.D. Elias Horlbeck, M. D. A. G. Mackey, M. D. B. B. Strobel, M. D. Elias Horlbeck, M.D. Thos. Y. Simons, M. D. F. Y. Porcher, M. D. B. B. Strobel, M. D. Thos. Y. Simons, M. D. Thos. Y. Simons. M. D. o ^ .'Ts________,________________________________________.----—--- INTRODUCTORY LECTURE, DELIVERED AT THE OPENING OF THE SESSION OP THE MEDICAL COLLEGE OF S. CAROLINA, ON THE SECOND MONDAY IN NOVEMBER, 1837, BY THOMAS Y. SIMONS, M. D. DEAN OF THE FACULTY; PROFESSOR OF THE THEORY AND PRACTICE OF PHYSIC IN THE MEDICAL COLLEGE OF 8. CAROLINA, EXTRAORDINARY MEMBER OF THE ROYAL PHYSICAL SOCIETY OP EDINBURGH, AND EX-PRESIDENT OF THE MEDICAL SOCIETY OF SOUTH-CAROLINA. PUBLISHED BY THE STUDENTS. CHARLESTON: PRINTED BY E. C. COUNCELL. 1838. TVS - .3* < t C c f< . c C <> <