Thomas Prosser (c1780–1827): army surgeon on the convict ship Maria

Abstract

Between 1793 and 1815, The French Wars between Britain and France provided work for a generation of army surgeons. Military efficiency in record keeping and subsequent governmental archiving ensured that material is available for the biographers of such men. However, by contrast information on these surgeons while in civilian practice is scant. Thomas Prosser is a typical example of a well-qualified early 19th century surgeon who chose a career with the army and who, while on half pay, was surgeon to a female convict ship.