James Eaton (1836-1916)

JAMES Eaton, M and L.&C5, Eng, and LS, Lond, of Abbey House, St Peters Hill died suddenly following a cold. He was still practising aged 80.

Dr Eaton was born Grantham, where he lived most of his life.

His father was physician and surgeon in town, his brother practised here, his uncle Dr. Freeman, was for 30 years a doctor at Ancaster and the late Dr Newman, of Stamford, was his cousin.

His grandfather was agent for the Duke of Rutland.

He was educated the Grantham Grammar School and at Guildford and was trained at St George’s Hospital, London, taking his degree at 20, the earliest age possible.

Before returning to Grantham, practised Farnsworth and for a short time was ship’s surgeon.

He once successfully brought an action against the Mayor and Corporation in connection with a contract for public work performed. In May, 1888 he was appointed Medical Officer of Health for the Grantham Rural District, securing a large majority of votes over three other candidates for the office.

At that time he was a member of the Grantham Board of Guardian, being re-elected the previous April the bead of the poll, after completing three years’ service, but he resigned on being appointed an official.

In July, 1892, Dr Eaton was elected Medical Officer of Health for the Spittlegate District and the Grantham Union Workhouse, and Public Vaccinator for Grantham and Spittlegate districts, again securing a large majority of votes over two other applicants for the appointments.

For the poor especially Dr Eaton displayed a great kindliness of heart, and this was never manifested a fuller degree than in connection with his duties at the Workhouse.

Dr Eaton married Miss Lynn, younger daughter of the late Mr Lynn, of Church Farm, Stroxton, and she survived him.

Apart from the public appointments he took no active part in the town’s affairs, except displaying that individual interest which should always characterise good and zealous citizen.

He particularly loved horses and was a good judge of hackneys, and was at one time a successful breeder, winning many honours local and district shows.

He was also keen on bantams and cage, birds of which he was an enthusiastic breeder and exhibitor.