The Redoubtable Dr Bird of Leeds, Bone Setter

often passing down their knowledge through apprenticeships or from parent to child across generations. By the 17th and 18th centuries, bone setters were gaining more recognition, and the profession became more organised in the 19th century.

The 19th century in England witnessed significant controversy surrounding bone setters, who were often viewed with scepticism by the emerging medical establishment despite their popularity among the general public. This controversy highlights the broader struggle between traditional empirical practices and the nascent scientific medical profession. Despite considerable opposition from the formal medical community, bone setters maintained a strong presence due to their practical success and public support. This period ultimately contributed to the evolution of orthopaedic medicine, acknowledging the value of both empirical skill and scientific training in treating musculoskeletal injuries. Many notable English bone setter families, such as the Taylors, the Huttons, the Masons, the Evans, and the Matthews, come to mind. Some members of these families even authored books on their profession. Despite this, the label of “quackery” persisted.

George Matthews Bennett, a midland bone setter and author, opened his book The Art of the Bone-Setter, published in 1884, with the following statement:

“It is somewhat curious that one of our leading medical journals (Lancet) should have suggested, within a brief period, that bone-setters likewise had recourse to charms and magic – thus credulity, in those who would ridicule the credulous, repeats itself even in these enlightened days”.

But were all accusations of quackery entirely unfounded? Or was there perhaps a kernel of truth fuelling this perception? A pertinent example of a bone setter encountering legal troubles for unorthodox practices resembling witchcraft can be found in the Carlisle Patriot (Saturday, 10 April 1819), which reported that: “A very singular scene was exhibited at Leeds on Saturday which drew together several thousands of spectators … A quack doctor named John Bird was publicly flogged, opposite the Court-House, for a scandalous imposition.”

The parents of a young man dying of consumption, after having obtained no relief from the medical community, applied to Doctor Bird, who, it was reported: 

“promised a speedy recovery. He said the young man was labouring under the effects of witchcraft, from which he could free him by his consummate skills. Previous to beginning the cure, however, he insisted upon being paid 30s. for the incantations, 6s. for two bottles of physic, and 2s. for the heart of a black hen, without a black feather! The poor creatures, with the greatest difficulty, raised the money, and the Doctor commenced his operations”.

Seeing no ultimate success in his “cure” the Doctor told the parent that if their son: “departed this life with the spell upon him, he would, assuredly, go to hell; but if they could procure him three pounds, he could charm away the spell, and assure him a safe reception in Heaven!!!” At this point assisted by friends, the couple reported the good doctor to the authorities, leading to his apprehension. Upon conviction, he was “sentenced to be publicly and severely flogged. Doctor Bird had hitherto lived in apparent respectability in Leeds, and such was his fame that patients flocked to him from all parts of the country”.

Following this incident, John Bird distanced himself from spells and similar practices, eventually becoming one of the most sought-after bone setters and general practitioners in the Leeds area. Born in 1782 or 1783 in Kendal, Westmorland, he moved to Leeds around 1818/1819, settling at, and trading from, No. 7 Harper Street, Kirkgate. His practice became so well-established that, after his death on 16 July 1845, his widow Hannah advertised that: “the business of the late Mr John Bird, bone setter, &c. &c. Harper Street … is carried on as usual in all its departments” under her management. She provided consultations and sold medicines such as Bird’s Clarified Drops, Female Pills, and Whitworth Bottles (Leeds Times – Saturday 9 August 1845).

Bird was buried at St Mark’s Church in Woodhouse, Leeds (images below, ©Alternative Healers 1834-1948 and Gateway Church). With the assistance of church staff, we attempted to locate his grave. Unfortunately, our initial attempt was unsuccessful due to the sheer number of fallen headstones. However, the quest continues, and we will not abandon the search for Dr Bird’s final resting place.