A Unique source for the history of midwifery in Scotland: the minutes of the Faculty of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow

Cameron, A. (2005) A Unique source for the history of midwifery in Scotland: the minutes of the Faculty of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. Scottish Archives, 11, pp. 37-46.

Abstract

n 1740, the Faculty of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow (FPSG) introduced a system of examination and licensing for midwives within the counties of Lanark, Ayr, Renfrew, and Dunbarton. This scheme remained in operation until the 1820's and was unique in Great Britain. The minute books of the FPSG reveal the development, nature, and impact of the licensing system and are an invaluable source for the history of midwifery in 18th- and early-19th-century Scotland. More specifically, they record the names, places of residence, and marital status of many of the candidates. This article draws on the minutes to analyze the number of midwives licensed during this period, their personal characteristics, the relative success of the scheme, and the reasons for its eventual decline.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: No
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Cameron, Dr Anne
• Authors: Cameron, A.
• Subjects: R Medicine > R Medicine (General); D History General and Old World > D History (General)
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Economic and Social History
• Journal Name: Scottish Archives
• ISSN: 1358-0264