Archibald Young qualified MB,CM from the University of Glasgow in 1895 after which he spent time in Europe continuing his studies. After returning to Glasgow he worked under great mentors, including Joseph Coats and Sir William Macewen. He spent much of his career working at the Western Infirmary, gradually working his way up the surgical posts from Extra Dispensary Surgeon in 1903 to Visiting Surgery to the Infirmary in 1917.

Young was Regius Professor of Surgery at the University of Glasgow from 1924–1939 and President of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow from 1935 to 1937.

This painting is the second portrait of Young painted by James Gunn. The first portrait, which was presented to Young in 1939, is now part of the University of Glasgow collection. ]]>
Gunn; Sir; James (1893-1964); Artist, RA, LLD]]>

These notes are written by Young and are taken from physiology lectures delivered by John Gray McKendrick, professor of physiology at the University of Glasgow. ]]>
c. 1929 (original photograph)]]>
“4 Clydeford Drive, Uddingston, 18/7/39.

Dear Professor Young,

When I read in this morning’s newspaper a remark you made at yesterday’s presentation of your portrait in oils- “One is more sure of today- one can be less sure of tomorrow.” I decided to write to you at once.

How can I find words for the adequate expression of my thanks for the great kindnesses you have shown me? We are told that out of the fullness of the heart the mouth speaketh. I have sometimes doubted the literal accuracy of that statement and never more than today. Blame the poverty of my vocabulary but whatever the cause it is certainly not any deficiency in my keen and abiding feeling of gratitude to you. I was sorry that I did not see you again before I left the hospital, but most unfortunately was asked to released duly as Mr Orr would explain.

I have been keeping fairly well, but my feet have been troubling me. Perhaps I was too soon at work and didn’t get an opportunity to rest them enough.

Let me say that while in hospital, I was most contented and received kindness from everyone.

My debt to the hospital I have not yet paid. I have been wondering if there is anything I could give to Ward 19 in your name. I noted that the Ward had no dinner-waggon.
I must give something. If that isn’t suitable, then money shall be sent in honour of one who has been to me a great friend.

I am hoping to visit the hospital on Saturday and then may find out what would be the most acceptable present for the Ward, Prof. Young’s Ward.

I sincerely pray that your health will greatly improve and that you will be spared to us for many years.

I trust that this note has made clear to you the warmth of my deepest gratitude.

Yours sincerely,

William Clark”


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Miss Elizabeth Helen Alexander was a scholar of the oriental studies and a bibliographer from Glasgow. She spent some of her career documenting the career of Sir John Ferguson who was the Professor of Chemistry at the University of Glasgow. She received her honorary degree Master of Laws (LLM) in 1934 and was the only woman to be decorated on that occasion. ]]>