William Johnson Walker was born on March 15, 1789 in Charlestown, Massachusetts. He was prepared for college at Phillips Academy and attended Harvard University, graduating in 1810. He then commenced studying medicine with Dr. John Brooks of Medford, Massachusetts, and eventually graduated from the Massachusetts Medical College in 1813. During the War of 1812, Walker practiced medicine in France and studied with French physicians. At war's end, he relocated to London and continued his studies for six months before returning to his native Charlestown to open a practice. He would later be appointed physician and surgeon of the Massachusetts State Prison and consulting surgeon to the Massachusetts General Hospital. After practicing medicine for thirty years, Walker turned his attention to manufacturing and railroads, thereby amassing a significant fortune. During his lifetime, he gave $200,000 to Tufts College, the Natural History Society of Boston, Amherst College, Williams College, and the Institute of Technology in Boston. In his will, he gave an additional $800,000 to Tufts College, the Natural History Society of Boston, Amherst College, and the Institute of Technology. He died in 1865.
From the description of William J. Walker, papers, 1861-1909. (Tufts University - Tisch Library). WorldCat record id: 774603135
