William Osler and Jacob Mendez Da Costa: Philadelphia medicine, 1884-1889

Abstract

When William Osler (1849-1919), at the age of 35, moved from Montreal to Philadelphia (the leading medical centre in the United States) in 1884, Jacob Mendez Da Costa (1833-1900) was 51, and Chair of Practice at Jefferson Medical College. During Osler's five frenetic years in Philadelphia, he and Da Costa shared medical and professional experiences, interactions with friends and colleagues, and participation in the leading medical organizations in the United States. The shared experiences reflect Philadelphia in the 1880s, the traditions, the times and the individuals. Although Da Costa was considered the greatest clinical teacher of his day, his career embodied Quaker Philadelphia and his legacy does not reflect the stature of the clinician and the man. In time, Osler became Sir William Osler, a man for the ages.