Dr. James Crane
Dr. James Wellington Crane devoted his entire life to the service of the medical students at Western University. From the moment he moved to London and formally accepted a position at the university in 1913, Crane strived to “encourage the spirit of investigation” in every student he taught through his sometimes unorthodox teaching methods. Dr. Crane served as the Professor of Pharmacology, while also teaching classes in Biochemistry and therapeutics, in addition to his position as registrar. Crane is also credited for founding many different student organizations to promote student research and relationships; The Harvey Club (1919-present), the Medical Historical Society (1920-1934), the Noon Day Study Club (1934-1954[?]), the Osler Society (1927-present), the Western Alumni Organization (1924-present), and the Meds Merrymakers (1929-1955). Crane even found himself on the editorial staff for the student yearbook, and as a hockey coach of the 1927-1929 championed Med student team.
Crane taught at the Western Medical School until 1936, when he transitioned to the position of Alumni Director until his official retirement in 1946. Even then, Crane remained active in student life, attending almost every single reunion of the medical school.
Dr. Crane passed on November 3, 1959.
