John Scudder

Born in Freehold, New Jersey, in 1793, he trained first as a physician and built a successful medical practice before a religious conversion changed the course of his life. He studied theology, was ordained, and chose to combine medicine and ministry in overseas mission work.

He is best known for serving in South Asia as one of the first American medical missionaries. Working in places including Ceylon and India, he preached, practiced medicine, and helped establish mission stations, schools, and churches at a time when this kind of work was still new for Americans abroad.

He died in 1855, but his influence continued through the large Scudder family, many of whom also became missionaries and doctors. His life is remembered as an early example of medicine being used alongside education and pastoral work in long-term mission service.