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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

Philson, Thomas Moore

Philson, Thomas Moore, M.D., M.R.C.S., Edinburgh, sometime assistant surgeon, 58th regiment, brigade-surgeon Lieut.-Col. N.Z. Militia, coroner, and surgeon to the Auckland gaol. Dr Philson was one of Auckland's oldest and most respected citizens, having arrived with the 58th regiment at the bay of Islands in 1845, during the “Hone Heke” campaign. Dr. Philson was born in Londonderry, Ireland, in 1817, and was the eldest son of Mr. Matthew Philson, who was mathematical
The Late Dr. T. M. Philson.

The Late Dr. T. M. Philson.

page 287 master of a large private school in Derry for many years, and who partly educated his son. He afterwards went to Edinburgh, entered the university in 1834, and after the regular course of study took his M.D. degree in 1839. On leaving the university he went to England and was assistant to Drs. Abel and Heane, medical practitioners, residing in the Forest of Deane, Gloucestershire. He remained with these gentlemen for about three years, when he received his commission as assistant surgeon in the 58th regiment, which was ordered to New Zealand in 1845. Prior to this Dr. Philson married Miss Matilda Willmet Anderson, daughter of Capt. Anderson R.N., whilst the regiment was in quarters at Chatham. They had a family of three sons and five daughters. Dr. Philson arrived at the Bay of Islands in the year 1845, and remained there for a year, taking an active part in the engagement at Ruapekapeka and was mentioned in the despatches. The 58th was then ordered to Wellington and subsequently to Wanganui, at both of which places he saw much active service. In 1850, Dr. Philson resigned his commission in the army to commence private practice, which continued for about forty-eight years, a unique experience in Auckland. He was appointed surgeon to the Auckland provincial hospital in 1858, which post he held for 25 years, resigning it on the disablement of his right hand from a poisoned wound. He also held the appointments of district coroner, and surgeon to Her Majesty's gaol. Dr. Philson died on the 22nd of November, 1899.