EDWIN J. ATKINSON, M.D.

 

From the 1887 History of Vernon County, Missouri, p. 614-615:

Edwin J. Atkinson, M.D.

(Physician and Surgeon, Nevada)

     One of the most progressive adepts of the school of Allopathy in this portion of the State is Dr. Edwin J. Atkinson, whose labors in the prosecution of his professional practice entitle him to a front rank among the physicians of this and adjacent counties.  A native of Marion county, Mo., his birth occurred there July 12, 1830, his parents being Joel and Jane C. (Jones) Atkinson, both of Kentucky birth and antecedents.  The former took up his residence in Marion county, Mo., in 1826, and died there about the year 1871, after having been closely identified with the interests of the county for many years; his wife is also now deceased.  Edwin J., the third child and second son of eight children, grew up on his father’s farm until the age of 17, and for a time pursued his studies at Marion College.  About 1849 he entered upon a course of medical reading, and owing to circumstances it became necessary for him to obtain through his own efforts the education which he so much desired.  With rare perseverance and energy he closely applied himself, and finally was enabled to attend the American Medical College, of Cincinnati, O., from which he was graduated in the class of 1856.  Returning to his native town, Dr. Atkinson at once started his professional career, but becoming convinced of the fact that a physician was less likely to succeed among his own family and friends than in the midst of strangers, he left there in 1856 and went to Knox county, from whence he moved in 1867 to Carrollton, Carroll county.  Five years later he settled at Moundville, Vernon county, and for six years he was permanently established at that point, his next location being made at Nevada, which has since given him a worthy place among her professional citizens.  Dr. Atkinson is recognized by the entire community as a physician of merit.  As a skilled and careful surgeon his fame has continued from the first to increase, not only from the force of his natural genius, but also from his kindness of manner and devoted attention to his patients, as well as owing to his humanity of heart; and in the discharge of his professional duties he has ever been a friend as well as physician.  February 2, 1852, he was united in marriage to Miss Eliza C. Kelly, of Kentucky.  Their three children are Minerva J., now Mrs. Woods S. Creel; Eddy K. and Mary J.  Dr. Atkinson belongs to the K. of P., I. O. O. F. and A. O. U. W. lodges, also holding membership in the Encampment of the Odd Fellows Order.  In temperance matters Dr. Atkinson has been a leader, taking part as an active worker in the cause during all his life.  He has been connected with all the leading organizations for the suppression of the liquor traffic from and including the Washingtonian movement.

 

[Transcribed by Becky Siple]

  

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