James McCall

Prof James McCall FRCVS (1834, Newton-on-Ayr, Scotland — 1 November 1915) was the founder and the first principal of Glasgow Veterinary College.

Life

McCall was born in Newton-on-Ayr in 1834. His father owned a transport business between Glasgow and Ayr. It was here that James became involved in the welfare of horses.

James studied at Wallacetown Academy and Ayr Academy. He was originally apprenticed as a lawyer in Ayr.

Even in his early days he was interested in animals. He worked as a superintendent of the horse department with Messrs Pickford company caring for as many as 1000 horses.

McCall attended the Royal (Dick) Veterinary College in Edinburgh. At this stage he was living at 49 Bath Street.

McCall had an interest in Clydesdale horses, and was twice vice-president of the Clydesdale Horse Society.

He died in Glasgow on 1 November 1915. He is buried in the southmost section of the Glasgow Necropolis.

Family

McCall was married twice: Williamina Aitken Walker (1840-1881) and Clementina Stuart Johnson.

He was survived by nine sons and seven daughters.

Works