Keys to History

In less than two years, John McCrae will leave civilian life for the front in the First World War. With nearly fourteen years of medical practice behind him, he looks very much the successful doctor. At this point in his career, he was lecturing at McGill University, practising in his own clinic and co-authoring a medical text with the renowned Dr. William Osler (1849-1919).

McCrae had maintained a close friendship with Dr. Osler since his visit to Johns Hopkins Hospital in 1899, and incorporated much of Osler's teaching into his own practice. Dr. Osler, who had graduated with a degree in medicine from McGill University the year McCrae was born, would have many credits to his name. He was the first Professor of Medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital, a specialist in blood, heart and lung diseases who published many medical texts. Osler emphasized compassionate care for patients, equating this with successful recovery rates, and he helped create a system of postgraduate training for physicians that is still used today.

McCrae's correspondence describes a busy schedule. He belonged to several Montreal clubs including the Shakespeare Club, a literary group, the Zeta Psi Fraternity, the McGill University Club, and the Military Institute Club of Montreal. Sundays took him to St. Paul's Presbyterian Church on Sherbrooke Street for services.