Dr. Thomas Ewell

http://www.thenashvillecitycemetery.org/280966_ewell.htm

ittle is known of his early years, his interest in medicine became evident with Dr. George Graham at Dumfries and later with Dr. John Weems in Washington, D.C. He then studied with Dr. Benjamin Rush, who at the time was Professor Medicine.

Thomas received an M.D. degree in medicine from the Graduate University of Pennsylvania, appointed Surgeon U.S. Army, 16 Jan 1808; resigned 5 May 1813, was a medical writer of note.

He published a well-known and valuable medical work of that day called "Ewell's Family Medicine." His old friend, Dr. George Graham, was the godfather of Mrs. Jefferson Davis.

Dr. Thomas Ewell wrote the first American Chemistry text for the nonscientist, helped to reorganized the Naval Medical Service. and introduced several significant innovations in gunpowder manfacturing and became a rival of the Du Ponts.

In 1807, he married Elizabeth Stoddert, the d/o of Hon. Benjamin and Rebecca (Loundes) Stoddert. See more on the Stodderts under the Allied Families section of this book. It was at this time that became involved in a number of practical enterprises associated with the family. He became involved with the Anacosta Bridge Company as an agent and administrator. It was also through the Stoddert connection that he began his interest in the manufacture of gunpowder. During late 1811 and early 1812, and Dr. Ewell began to advertise for helpers and a manager for a gunpowder plant located near Bladenburg, MD, at Mr. Stoddert's mill. He received a contract form the Navy Department, date February 7, 1812. During this time he entered into lenghthy correspondence with E.I. Du Pont de Nemours. He wished assistance from Du Pont, including the securing of a work force. Du Pont did not help and resisted all efforts to have any of his men go to Ewell.

When Thomas died he left no descendant who could carry on the Ewell name. He had changed