Biographical History of Pottawattmie Co., IA

onald MACRAE, one of the oldest practicing physicians and surgeons of Council Bluffs, -- his professional labor so dating from 1861, -- is a native of Scotland, born in Rosshire, October 3, 1839, a son of Rev. Donald Macrae, of the Free Church of Scotland. His mother was Jessie Russell, a daughter of the Rev. James Russell, of Gairloch, Rosshire, Scotland. Dr. Macrae's education was received at the University of Edinburgh, where he graduated from the medical department, in August, 1861. He practiced in the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary for a year and a half, after which he accepted a position as surgeon for the Cunard Steamship Company, and during his four years' service he crossed the Atlantic Ocean seventy-five times! His last trip landed him in New York city, where he was united in marriage with Miss Charlotte, daughter of the late Joseph Douchette, Surveyor General of Canada, who died in 1881, at the age of eighty-six years. Mrs. Macrae is a native of Canada, as above stated.

Dr. Macrae came to Council Bluffs in March, 1867, and engaged in the practice of his profession, and soon built up a successful and lucrative practice, and has won the confidence of all who know him. In connection with his extensive practice he has been identified with the Omaha Medical College since 1881, where he is Professor of the Principles and Practice of Medicine, and also Dean of the faculty. In 1887-'88 he was President of the Iowa State Medical Society and of the Medical Society of the Missouri Valley as well. At the meeting of the International Medical Congress held at Washington, District of Columbia, he was Vice-President of the surgical section. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., Council Bluffs Lodge, and is Past Master of the A. 0. U. W., and a member of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Macrae is a member of the Episcopal Church. Dr. and Mrs. Macrae are the parents of one son, Donald, born January 24, 1870, who is now studying medicine at the University of Michigan. Dr. Macrae is a Democrat, but has had little time to attend to political issues. He served as a member of the School Board. for two years, and in 1890 was elected on the citizens' non-partisan ticket as Mayor of Council Bluffs, by a large majority.

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