Henry Palmer (surgeon)

For others of the same name, see Henry Palmer.

Henry Palmer was a surgeon from Janesville, Wisconsin who served in the Union Army during the American Civil War, later serving as Surgeon General of the state of Wisconsin and as mayor of Janesville.

Early life

Palmer was born in New Hartford, New York in 1827. He graduated from Albany Medical College in 1854. In 1856, Palmer moved to Janesville, Wisconsin.

Military career

Palmer joined the 7th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Regiment in 1861. The following year, he was named Brigadier Surgeon of U.S. Volunteers and remained in the position until the conclusion of the Civil War. Additionally, he was chief surgeon at York U.S. Army Hospital.

Post-war

Palmer would spend time as a member of the faculty at the University of Illinois College of Medicine. From 1880 to 1890, he was Surgeon General of Wisconsin. Palmer was twice Mayor of Janesville. He died in 1895.