The Physicians of Ackley (Iowa)

The first physician in Ackley was Dr. I.N. Grist, who came in the summer of 1865, remained ten years and moved to Waterloo, Iowa.

Dr. James Seaton Kelso located here in 1867, having previously served in the Second Wisconsin Cavalry as its surgeon in the Civil war. He was a wonderful man in many ways, always obliging and ready to aid others. He gained a large practice in Ackley and surrounding country, practing there until his death, several years ago. He was a native of Lisburn, Ireland, born in 1820. His father was a Presbyterian clergyman. He commenced the study of medicine at the University of Glasgow in 1830. He located in Lafayette county, Wisconsin in 1845, where he practiced until 1860, after which he took a trip to California and there edited the Shasta Courier when Leland S. Sanford was running and elected governor. He was a student, scholar and ready writer on almost any subject.

Other early physicians of Ackley were there: Dr. Paulkner, Dr. Turk, Dr. Vander Hnyl, Dr. Feeustra, Dr. Potter, Dr. McDermott, Dr. Roberts and Dr. Hiln and Dr. N.W. Hill.

Dr. Potter was one of the most prominent of the early physicians. He had for his field the northeast part of Hardin county and adjoining counties, especially Franklin and Grundy counties. He is now retired, having accumulated an abundance for himself and family.

Dr. N.W. Hill enjoyed a large practice and some years ago removed to California.

Dr. Miller succeeded to the practice of Dr. Potter.

Among the doctors in Ackley of late years are Drs. Symington, Raymond Vroom Bryson, Jacobs, Turner, Hanson, Phelan, Harald, Thornton and Miller.

Of Dr. Symington, it may be added that he is among the prominent physicians of Hardin county today.

Dr. James William Thornton is a man of fine ability and education, being recognized as such and has a large share of the medical practice in his locality.