William Mecklenburg Polk

Biography

William Mecklenburg Polk, born in 1844, dedicated his life to military medicine and service, drawing upon the lessons of the Civil War to become a leading physician and advocate for the health of soldiers and civilians alike. His training and expertise fostered innovations in hospital administration at a time when the nation was healing from conflict.

Beyond his military career, he wrote extensively on medical subjects and helped shape public health policy, blending compassion with professionalism. He rests in Woodlawn Cemetery, honored for his commitment to the men and women who served the country in uniform.