GUILBERT, Edward A.

GUILBERT, Dr. Edward A. (Jefferson Co., NY, June 12, 1826-Dubuque, IA, Mar. 4, 1900). Physician. Guilbert, a prominent Midwestern physician, was recognized for his treatment of diseases with medicated and electric baths. He aided in the organization of the St. Louis Homeopathic College and was one of the organizers of the Illinois Homeopathic Medical Society. In 1876 Guilbert established the NORTHWESTERN SANITARIUM in Dubuque for low-income patients unable to afford medical care from local physicians. Guilbert was a member of the Hahnemann Medical Association of Iowa and the State Board of Health being appointed in 1890 by Governor Boies.

Guilbert's political interests began in 1872 with the Liberal Republican movement. At the first Liberal Republican Convention held in Iowa, Guilbert was unanimously chosen permanent chairman. He was an unsuccessful nominee for congressional candidate in 1874. Guilbert was nominated, in his absence, as a candidate for governor in 1875 on the Anti-Monopoly ticket, but declined. In February 1863, Dr. Guilbert aided in founding the Union League and served as president of the state organization and also of the local order.

Guilbert was also an active member of the Masonic Lodge in Iowa. He served the Grand Lodge of Iowa from 1871 to 1872 as Grand High Priest and in 1874 as Grand Commander. For three years, he also published the Evergreen, an Iowa Masonic paper, at Dubuque.