American Medical Biographies/Askew, Henry Ford
Askew, Henry Ford (1805–1876)
For many years the extent of his practice was such that he fulfilled its demands only by the aid of a remarkably vigorous constitution. His marked energy, decision and coolness made him an especially successful surgeon. His singular ability in that department was generally acknowledged so that he was more frequently called upon than any of the other physicians in his vicinity. He had large political interests in and out of his state, and was concerned in wide benevolences.
Dr. Askew was born in the vicinity of Wilmington, June 24, 1805, in a house which later became a part of St. Mary's College. His family was one of the oldest Quaker families in the state, his ancestor, Sergeant John Askew, being of those who took part in the surrender of New Amsterdam in 1664.
Dr. Askew's first medical study was in Wilmington with Dr. William Gibbons. He completed his preparation at the University of Pennsylvania, from which he graduated in 1826.
He was president of the American Medical Association in 1846, and of the Delaware State Medical Society.
His practice was not only the largest in the city, but the largest in his state. In the prime of his work, he was out at least half the night, and beside the immense amount of work he did, was remarkable for his great charm and cheeriness of manner. It has been said of him that he knocked at almost every portal of usefulness and was adequate to every opportunity of helping those with whom he came in contact. He was, all his life, a member of the Society of Friends. In his last days he united with the Methodist Episcopal Church.
His wife, Mary Hanson Robinson, was, like himself, of Quaker descent. Their only boy died early in life.
Dr. Askew died at the age of seventy-one of apoplexy. During his last few years both physical and mental powers gradually failed, and on March 5, 1876, in Wilmington, he passed away.
In 1847 he delivered an address before the American Medical Association, as president of the Society. This address is a vigorous exposition of his views on medical ethics and other matters pertaining to the welfare of the medical profession.