Thomas Morstede 1380 - 1450

Henry V’s personal surgeon in 1410 AD was Thomas Morstede 1380 - 1450.

He came from Betchworth near Dorking in Surrey. In 1423 AD he founded The English College of Medicine whose aims were to introduce better medical education and supervision for the medical profession, including the setting of common examinations, inspecting premises stocking medicines, regulating fees and providing FREE MEDICAL CARE TO THE POOR.

All of this was to be regulated by the annual election of a rector. In 1435 AD he founded the Mystery or Guild of Surgeons, a professional body which still exists today.

With thanks to Juliet Barker Agincourt