Edward Delafield

Edward Delafield (May 7, 1794 – February 13, 1875) was an American medical doctor, primarily known as an ophthalmologist, but also for his work in obstetrics and gynaecology. He was the co-founder (with John Kearney Rodgers) of the New York Eye Infirmary and the first president of the American Ophthalmological Society. From 1858 until his death he was the president of the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City. His son, Francis Delafield, also became a prominent physician.

Edward Delafield is buried at the Delafield Family Mausoleum

Early life

Delafield was born in New York City, one of the 14 children to John Delafield and Anne (née Hallett) Delafield. His father emigrated to New York from England in 1788 and made a fortune as a merchant. Among his siblings were brothers Joseph Delafield, Maj. Gen. Richard Delafield and Rufus King Delafield.

Education and War of 1812

Delafield was educated at Union Hall Academy before entering Yale University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 1812. He then studied medicine at the New York College of Physicians and Surgeons while simultaneously training under a prominent New York surgeon, Samuel Borrowe.

His medical studies were interrupted by the War of 1812. He and his brothers Henry, William, and Joseph joined the "Iron Grays", a private infantry company formed in 1814 and charged with protecting New York City from the perceived (but unrealized) threat of a British invasion. Delafield served as the company's surgeon and as a surgeon in the New York company of the Sea Fencibles Battalion.