Born in Massachusetts, USA.
He graduated from Amherst College and later earned a doctorate in Germany, studying chemistry among other subjects.
He taught chemistry and botany at his alma mater, Amherst.
He fought as an officer in the Union army during the Civil War.
He became president of the Massachusetts Agricultural College.
Invited to Japan, he taught agriculture, science and Christian ideals as vice-principal of Sapporo Agricultural College.
He left Japan after only about eight months, reportedly saying at parting, "Boys, be ambitious!"
Around this time he tried mining and other ventures in America, without success.
He died in Massachusetts.
Matsuura TakeshirōIwakura TomomiKanō HōgaiTakahashi YuichiSoejima TaneomiNishi AmaneYuri KimimasaŌkubo Toshimichi
People of the Meiji period ・ People by period
Based on facts found in textbooks and biographies. Uncertain points are marked as such.