John Abner Snell
John Abner Snell (28 October 1880 – 2 March 1936), also known as Soo E. Sang, was a missionary surgeon and hospital administrator in Suzhou (Soochow), China. Snell was a devout Christian, and as early as age 14 he stated: "I aim to devote myself to God's service." After graduating from Vanderbilt Medical College in 1908, Dr. Snell applied for a post at the Methodist Missionary Society. He was appointed to the Methodist Episcopal Church (South) Hospital in Soochow.
John Abner Snell | |
|---|---|
| Born | October 28, 1880 Knife Falls, Minnesota, United States |
| Died | March 2, 1936 (aged 55) Soochow, China |
| Nationality | American |
| Other names | Soo E. Sang |
| Education | Vanderbilt University |
| Occupation(s) | Surgeon, doctor, medical missionary |
| Employer | Methodist Episcopal Church |
| Known for | Superintendent of Soochow Hospital, surgical work, medical research |
| Spouse |
Grace Birkett Snell
(m. 1907–1936) |
| Children | 7 |
Snell was known for his skillful surgical work, collection of data regarding syphilis prevalence, research into the host of blood flukes, and public health campaigns against tuberculosis. Under his administration, the Soochow Hospital underwent a large expansion, acquired modern technology, and was held to a very high standard. He was considered one of "the finest and most skillful surgeons ever coming to China." Snell encouraged the integration of local workers in the mission hospital, stating in one report: "Let us take into partnership with us the people among whom and for whom we are working and co-operate with them to establish medical standards." The hospital where Snell once worked, now The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, is still considered one of the best in the region.