Pediatric biographies: George Armstrong. 1930.

Abstract

George Armstrong, one of the most notable figures in the history of pediatrics, was the brother of the physician-poet, John Armstrong, and like him was endowed with a peculiar personality which militated against his chances of continued success. Little is known about him, not even the date or place of birth. Caulfield stated that his father was Robert Armstrong, a minister of Castleton, 1693-1733, which would bring the date of his birth sometime before 1735. He practiced pharmacy at Hempstead, and then, after qualifying as a physician, went to London and started the first hospital and dispensary for the children of the poor in a house in Red Lion Square. Infants up to 4 years of age were treated, as half of those born in London died by that time. This establishment was opened in 1769 and was in operation until 1781, when, according to Buchan, it was closed for