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Dr. George Malcolmson and his early medical practice in southwestern alberta Back to video
Little is known of George Malcolmson’s early life except that his birth is dated 1867. By 1897, the thirty year old Malcolmson arrived in Lethbridge, already a practicing doctor. He established a thriving medical practice at the old Sir Alexander Galt Hospital, situated close to the downtown core and commanding a great view over the coulees of the Oldman River. This refurbished brick structure now serves as the city operated museum and archives. Part of his initial work was taking care of those men injured during the building of the Lethbridge to Nelson BC Canadian Pacific Railway. Pincher Creek history enthusiasts will recall that this was the railway that traverses our foothills terrain. The start of the line’s construction in that city, which included the mammoth High Level Bridge spanning a full mile over the Oldman River Valley, caused numerous accidents. The injuries, ranging from broken bones and limbs to more serious cases including several deaths resulting from falls off the footbridge, required Malcolmson’s quick and meticulous attention. Malcolmson was held in high regard by the pioneers in Lethbridge as a result of his medical efforts.