Sir Arnold Theiler (26/03/1867 - 24/07/1936) : general history

Abstract

Sir Arnold Theiler (1867 - 1936) was the father of veterinary science in South Africa. He was an outstanding researcher, administrator and teacher and made an enduring contribution to various disciplines both in South Africa and internationally. He was born in Frick, Switzerland in 1867. He qualified as a veterinarian in Zurich. In 1891 he packed his bags, few books, microscope and surgical instruments and took the steamer to the Cape, and then by train and post-chaise he travelled to Pretoria. He first worked as a farm hand at Irene Estates. It was here that he lost his left hand in a chaff cutter. At the end of that year he started practicing as a vet in Pretoria. In 1893 his reputation was established when he offered to prepare vaccine to combat an outbreak of smallpox among mine workers on the Witwatersrand. His success led to his appointment as state veterinarian in 1896. On 11th May 1896 he was officially sworn in as State Veterinarian for the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek.