Benjamin married first, Anne Marshall (1759-1785) on February 7, 1775 in Charles Co., Maryland.
Benjamin and Anne had the following children:
1) Josias Fendall b. 1-4-1776 Charles Co., MD. (died 10-8-1784 Charles Co., MD.).
2) (a dau.) Fendall b. ca. 1778 Charles Co., MD. (lived only a few hrs.).
3) Dr. Thomas Hanson Marshall Fendall I b. 2-28-1782 Charles Co., MD. d. 8-7-1823 Augusta, Richmond Co., GA.
m. Sara Marshall (Dent) Briscoe (1783).
4) Col. John W. Fendall, Dr. b. 1-29-1784 Charles Co., MD. d. 3-19-1842 Charles Co., MD.
m. Penelope Deye Cockey (1795-1853).
Benjamin married second, Elizabeth "Betsy" (Hughes) Rudolph (1762-1827) on June 27, 1785 Washington Parish, Leedstown, Westmoreland Co., Virginia.
Benjamin and Elizabeth had the following children:
5) Edward Fendall b. 3-30-1786 " Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 9-12-1834 "Woodlawn", Baltimore Co., MD.
m. Frances Thwaites "Fannie" Cockey (1794-1874).
6) Anne L. Fendall b. 10-13-1788 "Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 1829 Charles Co., MD.
m. Thomas Buchanan
7) 2nd Lt. Philip Richard Fendall b. 1789 "Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 1-24-1821 "Cedar Grove", near Allen's Fresh, Charles Co., MD. (never married)
Benjamin was born at his father's estate "Cedar Point", near Port Tobacco, Charles Co., Maryland. In 1763, at the age of nine, according to his father John Fendall's will, Benjamin inherited all that tract and parcel of land which "I bought of Benjamin Thomas lying near Cedar Point". From this land, he built and resided at his estate " Cedar Park". In his father's will, Benjamin was to be "put under care and tuition of Doctor James Bayard". By 1773, Benjamin testified that he was prepared to practice "physic and surgery", suggesting that Dr. James Asheton Bayard, Sr. (1738-1769) had honored the provisions in John Fendall's will. For the next six years he devoted and dedicated his time and attention to the art of dentistry, probably alongside Dr. John Baker, who had immigrated from England in 1760. John was the first dentist to practice in America, and began work in Boston at or before 1763. It was Baker who trained the famed Paul Revere.
Dr. James Gardette (1756-1831), frequently referred to as the first medically trained dentist to practice in America, began his work at Plymouth, Massachusetts, about 1778; while Dr. Josiah Flagg, Jr. (ca. 1763-1816), usually referred to as the "first native-born American dentist", began the practice of his profession about 1783. It is also shown that Dr. Isaac Greenwood, Sr., who was a part-time dentist in Boston, did not begin practicing dentistry until 1779. It is thus shown that Fendall pre-dates both Gardette, Flagg, and Greenwood by a number of years.
He is said to have attained great distinction, practicing as far north as Philadelphia and south to Richmond and Petersburg. In 1778 in contradistinction to his uncle Benjamin Fendall II (1739-1786), he signed the Oath of Allegiance and Fidelity in Charles County. In 1782 Benjamin was paid 22.5.6 pounds for professional services rendered to the County Militia. Thus, Benjamin is known not only as the first native born American dentist, but also the only surgeon dentist known to have rendered dental services to Revolutionary soldiers. He was appointed in 1784 a Justice of the Charles County Court. Benjamin had the distinction of working on Martha Washington's (and possibly George's) teeth. On top of being a fine dentist, he was also a prominent physician.
Along with his estate " Cedar Park", Benjamin also owned two other tracts of land. The first was listed in Upper Hundred, William & Mary Parish, Charles County, of the 1775-1778 census. The second was also in the 1775-1778 census as being in Pomonokey Hundred, Charles County. In the census of 1790 he was listed as the owner of twenty-six slaves.
On February 10, 1795, Benjamin purchased two tracts from Henry Francis Dade Yates (1765), from King George Co., Virginia for 267 pounds, 14 shillings, nine pence. The two tracts of land had previously belonged to Charles Yates (d. 1795). They consisted of " Yates Medows", 95 acres, and " Manchester", 100 acres. This land was on the Wicomico River in Charles Co., Maryland.
OUTSTANDING COLONIAL DENTIST OFFERS SERVICES IN ANNAPOLIS
The evening Sun Accent...On People...Arts...Leisure
Baltimore, Wednesday, January 28, 1976
by Josephine Novak
Dr. Benjamin Fendall places his first announcement in the Maryland Gazette of Annapolis. It appears August 15, 1776:
"Operator upon the TEETH, is just arrived in this city on his way to Baltimore, and intends returning about the middle of September next.
He cures the scurvy in the Gums, be it ever so bad; first cleans and scales the teeth from the corrosive, tartarous, gritty substance which impedes the gums from growing...He prevents teeth from growing rotten, keeps such as are decayed from growing worse; even to old age, makes the gums grow firm up to the teeth, and renders them white and beautiful...He fills up, with gold or lead, those that are hollow...He transplants natural teeth from one person to another which will be as firm in the jaw, without any ligament, as if they originally grew there...His DENTIFRICE is quite free from any corrosive preparation."
Benjamin Fendall, the first native-American surgeon-dentist, was born near Port Tobacco, Charles County, about 1753.
He was four generations removed from Gov. Josias Fendall (ca. 1628-1687), fourth provincial governor of Maryland (1656-1660), and he seems to have been a man of considerable means.
According to J. Ben Robinson, D. D. S., in his book "Foundations of Professional Dentistry" in America got under way in 1766.
"Benjamin Fendall," the book says,"...stands at the head of the dentists in Eighteenth century America."
He began his practice in Maryland in 1773. Continuing to work for 35 years, he conducted his extensive practice as far north as Philadelphia and as far south as Richmond.
At the time of the Declaration of Independence, he was one of 15 professional dentists practicing in Maryland and one of 79 in the 13 colonies.
All of them were obliged to contend with incompetent pretenders and found it necessary to advertise to protect themselves from the ones attached to dentistry by the work of charlatans.
Benjamin Fendall's newspaper communications to the public were numerous.
Through them, modern dentists have judged him to be adequately prepared for his time in both medicine and surgery. He was also familiar with the European practice of dentistry.
James Bayard of Charles County was his medical preceptor. Fendall mentions his medical training in 1779:
"Though bred to physic and surgery, I have, for these six years past devoted and dedicated my whole time and attention to that part of surgery which concerns the dentist's art."
In July, 1784, the following advertisement appeared in the Maryland Journal and Baltimore Advertiser:
"DOCTOR FENDALL having just arrived in town, has taken up his residence, for a few weeks, at Miss Young's in Calvert street. It is not solely by Lucre, or pecuniary Views, the Doctor is prompted to offer his assistance to the Public; he is urged by a Desire to serve them; kind Fortune has made him independent and placed him far above the hungry Tooth of Want.
When he fixes in artificial teeth, if not more than for, he gives them an Enamel which will preserve its whiteness by Care, and entirely retain it. This method of fixing Teeth, is different now from all former Methods..."
A year earlier, he was giving attention to Childrens teeth:
"July 1783 - The doctor thinks the teeth of children should not be neglected, for by cleaning them, even in the tenderest state, with proper medicine, will prevent a number of diseases - great care should be taken of the second dentition of children."
Fendall seems to have been the only surgeon dentist of record employed by Colonial militia during the Revolution.
A record dated 1782 reveals, "Dr. Benjamin Fendall of Charles County was paid 22 pounds, 5 shillings, 6 pense for professional services rendered to the county militia."
He was dentist to Martha Washington and made a denture for her. In 1799 Fendall wrote to General Washington, enclosing his bill: "To making 4 artificial teeth with an enamel for Mrs. W. for services rendered, twenty-eight dollars."
Significant in the history of dental surgery in Maryland is the fact that when the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery was established in 1840, it had the distinction of being the world's first college for modern dental education.
Dr. J. Ben Robinson, 92, who plans to publish a Bicentennial paper on Benjamin Fendall, served almost 40 years as professor and then dean of the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery which became a department of the University of Maryland School of Dentistry.
George Washington (1732-1794), from having defective teeth, was obliged to patronize dentists; He was from 1754, and possibly earlier, a frequent buyer of tooth brushes, toothpowder, and washes. the following are the names of some of his dentists: Dr's. (Benjamin) Fendall, (Andrew) Spencer, (John) Baker, and John Greenwood (1760-1819)." (The Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, Vol. XVI). He also had the services of Dr's. William Baker, Jean Pierre LeMayeur, James Gardette, Charles Willson Peale (1741-1827) (the painter), and Dr. Whitlock.
Below are excerpts of George Washington's diary, in which he mentions Doctor Benjamin Fendall:
2 December 1797 At Mount Vernon
GW writes: "Doctr. Fendall came in the afternoon".
7 December 1797 At Mount Vernon
GW writes: "Doctr. Fendall went away and Doctr. Stuart came."
According to "Fitzpatrick", author of the Washington Diaries, Vol. I, Washington paid Dr. Benjamin sixty dollars probably for dental work on Martha Washington.
The following is a transcribed letter from George Washington concerning Martha Washington's teeth:
"To Doctor B -- Fendall
Mount Vernon, March 6, 1798
Sir: Mrs. Washington has been long in expectation of receiving what you took away unfinished, and was to have completed and sent to here; and prays that it may be done with out further delay, as she is in want of them; and must apply elsewhere if not done. I am etc...
-George Washington"
Below is a transcribed letter of reply which Benjamin Fendall sent to George Washington in reply to Washington's letter of March 6, 1798 (above) concerning Martha's teeth. This was a year and a half after the letter from George Washington. In the meantime, Mrs. Washington did seek the help from a Dr. Whitlock from Boston. However, Dr. Whitlock was unable to help. It is concluded that she then sought the services of Dr. John Greenwood, George's dentist at that time. The spelling and letters in words used indicates the way Benjamin wrote in the letter. (?) indicates words that could not be made out.
Within this Day, or two, I found myself, so much relieved, from my continued, & painful illnefs. tho I use my left arm with some difficulty, as to be enabled to finish Mrs. Washingtons Teeth, and you'le receive them, safe, I hope, by my servant. They are -- as nearly as I can now recollect -- like the old ones -- & there are so many way, to make, & shape Teetch -- 'twould be almost impofsible, to make 'em, exactly alike -- after some time, without having the old ones present. The Model, I took, has, also, by accident sustained some injury. I am extremely sorry, indeed yr Lady has been obliged to wait so long owing to my long absence from home and my Illnefs, after I had arrived at Cedar Hill. I wish you & Mrs Washington, to have every conviction within yourselves, I ever will, with promptitude, and with pleasure, serve you both, when ever you may choose to Command me -- if in my power, and I (?) flatter myself, youall both seem my excuse to b sufficintly admifsible -- at this Time. Please to present my most Respectful Comps to Mrs Washington, & believe me,
Yours, with due respect,
B. Fendall
Aug. 10th -99
George Washington, to B Fendall - - - (?)
1799 Aug 10 to making artificial Teeth Twenty Eight
with Enamel for Mrs W-n Dollars =
Which if the Genl chooses - he can enclose me by my Servant John - Then c e the above in full
BFendall
Below is an advertisement which appeared in the Alexandria Gazette, dated April 19, 1794:
"...that he had just arrived in this town with a view to remain a short time in the exercise of his profession. His character as a Dentist he trust is so well established as to require no self commendation. Having given many specimens of his abilities in performing the various operations upon the teeth some eight or ten years ago in this place he has it happily in his power to appeal to those persons whose confidence he then obtained for the degree of reputation to which he is entitled.
DR. FENDALL'S resident will be at the House of P.R. Fendall, Esq. where he will be ready to receive an application that may be made to him, and will, upon short notice, wait upon such persons as are disposed to employ him".
* note: P. R. Fendall, Esq., was his Uncle, Philip Richard Fendall I, Esq. (1734-1805), who lived at 614 Oronoco Street in Alexandria. Dr. Fendall periodically visited Alexandria. In 1810 he again placed a special advertisement in The Alexandria Gazette, stating that he had practiced dentistry for 30 years.
Benjamin and Anne had the following children:
1) Josias Fendall b. 1-4-1776 Charles Co., MD. (died 10-8-1784 Charles Co., MD.).
2) (a dau.) Fendall b. ca. 1778 Charles Co., MD. (lived only a few hrs.).
3) Dr. Thomas Hanson Marshall Fendall I b. 2-28-1782 Charles Co., MD. d. 8-7-1823 Augusta, Richmond Co., GA.
m. Sara Marshall (Dent) Briscoe (1783).
4) Col. John W. Fendall, Dr. b. 1-29-1784 Charles Co., MD. d. 3-19-1842 Charles Co., MD.
m. Penelope Deye Cockey (1795-1853).
Benjamin married second, Elizabeth "Betsy" (Hughes) Rudolph (1762-1827) on June 27, 1785 Washington Parish, Leedstown, Westmoreland Co., Virginia.
Benjamin and Elizabeth had the following children:
5) Edward Fendall b. 3-30-1786 " Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 9-12-1834 "Woodlawn", Baltimore Co., MD.
m. Frances Thwaites "Fannie" Cockey (1794-1874).
6) Anne L. Fendall b. 10-13-1788 "Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 1829 Charles Co., MD.
m. Thomas Buchanan
7) 2nd Lt. Philip Richard Fendall b. 1789 "Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 1-24-1821 "Cedar Grove", near Allen's Fresh, Charles Co., MD. (never married)
Benjamin was born at his father's estate "Cedar Point", near Port Tobacco, Charles Co., Maryland. In 1763, at the age of nine, according to his father John Fendall's will, Benjamin inherited all that tract and parcel of land which "I bought of Benjamin Thomas lying near Cedar Point". From this land, he built and resided at his estate " Cedar Park". In his father's will, Benjamin was to be "put under care and tuition of Doctor James Bayard". By 1773, Benjamin testified that he was prepared to practice "physic and surgery", suggesting that Dr. James Asheton Bayard, Sr. (1738-1769) had honored the provisions in John Fendall's will. For the next six years he devoted and dedicated his time and attention to the art of dentistry, probably alongside Dr. John Baker, who had immigrated from England in 1760. John was the first dentist to practice in America, and began work in Boston at or before 1763. It was Baker who trained the famed Paul Revere.
Dr. James Gardette (1756-1831), frequently referred to as the first medically trained dentist to practice in America, began his work at Plymouth, Massachusetts, about 1778; while Dr. Josiah Flagg, Jr. (ca. 1763-1816), usually referred to as the "first native-born American dentist", began the practice of his profession about 1783. It is also shown that Dr. Isaac Greenwood, Sr., who was a part-time dentist in Boston, did not begin practicing dentistry until 1779. It is thus shown that Fendall pre-dates both Gardette, Flagg, and Greenwood by a number of years.
He is said to have attained great distinction, practicing as far north as Philadelphia and south to Richmond and Petersburg. In 1778 in contradistinction to his uncle Benjamin Fendall II (1739-1786), he signed the Oath of Allegiance and Fidelity in Charles County. In 1782 Benjamin was paid 22.5.6 pounds for professional services rendered to the County Militia. Thus, Benjamin is known not only as the first native born American dentist, but also the only surgeon dentist known to have rendered dental services to Revolutionary soldiers. He was appointed in 1784 a Justice of the Charles County Court. Benjamin had the distinction of working on Martha Washington's (and possibly George's) teeth. On top of being a fine dentist, he was also a prominent physician.
Along with his estate " Cedar Park", Benjamin also owned two other tracts of land. The first was listed in Upper Hundred, William & Mary Parish, Charles County, of the 1775-1778 census. The second was also in the 1775-1778 census as being in Pomonokey Hundred, Charles County. In the census of 1790 he was listed as the owner of twenty-six slaves.
On February 10, 1795, Benjamin purchased two tracts from Henry Francis Dade Yates (1765), from King George Co., Virginia for 267 pounds, 14 shillings, nine pence. The two tracts of land had previously belonged to Charles Yates (d. 1795). They consisted of " Yates Medows", 95 acres, and " Manchester", 100 acres. This land was on the Wicomico River in Charles Co., Maryland.
OUTSTANDING COLONIAL DENTIST OFFERS SERVICES IN ANNAPOLIS
The evening Sun Accent...On People...Arts...Leisure
Baltimore, Wednesday, January 28, 1976
by Josephine Novak
Dr. Benjamin Fendall places his first announcement in the Maryland Gazette of Annapolis. It appears August 15, 1776:
"Operator upon the TEETH, is just arrived in this city on his way to Baltimore, and intends returning about the middle of September next.
He cures the scurvy in the Gums, be it ever so bad; first cleans and scales the teeth from the corrosive, tartarous, gritty substance which impedes the gums from growing...He prevents teeth from growing rotten, keeps such as are decayed from growing worse; even to old age, makes the gums grow firm up to the teeth, and renders them white and beautiful...He fills up, with gold or lead, those that are hollow...He transplants natural teeth from one person to another which will be as firm in the jaw, without any ligament, as if they originally grew there...His DENTIFRICE is quite free from any corrosive preparation."
Benjamin Fendall, the first native-American surgeon-dentist, was born near Port Tobacco, Charles County, about 1753.
He was four generations removed from Gov. Josias Fendall (ca. 1628-1687), fourth provincial governor of Maryland (1656-1660), and he seems to have been a man of considerable means.
According to J. Ben Robinson, D. D. S., in his book "Foundations of Professional Dentistry" in America got under way in 1766.
"Benjamin Fendall," the book says,"...stands at the head of the dentists in Eighteenth century America."
He began his practice in Maryland in 1773. Continuing to work for 35 years, he conducted his extensive practice as far north as Philadelphia and as far south as Richmond.
At the time of the Declaration of Independence, he was one of 15 professional dentists practicing in Maryland and one of 79 in the 13 colonies.
All of them were obliged to contend with incompetent pretenders and found it necessary to advertise to protect themselves from the ones attached to dentistry by the work of charlatans.
Benjamin Fendall's newspaper communications to the public were numerous.
Through them, modern dentists have judged him to be adequately prepared for his time in both medicine and surgery. He was also familiar with the European practice of dentistry.
James Bayard of Charles County was his medical preceptor. Fendall mentions his medical training in 1779:
"Though bred to physic and surgery, I have, for these six years past devoted and dedicated my whole time and attention to that part of surgery which concerns the dentist's art."
In July, 1784, the following advertisement appeared in the Maryland Journal and Baltimore Advertiser:
"DOCTOR FENDALL having just arrived in town, has taken up his residence, for a few weeks, at Miss Young's in Calvert street. It is not solely by Lucre, or pecuniary Views, the Doctor is prompted to offer his assistance to the Public; he is urged by a Desire to serve them; kind Fortune has made him independent and placed him far above the hungry Tooth of Want.
When he fixes in artificial teeth, if not more than for, he gives them an Enamel which will preserve its whiteness by Care, and entirely retain it. This method of fixing Teeth, is different now from all former Methods..."
A year earlier, he was giving attention to Childrens teeth:
"July 1783 - The doctor thinks the teeth of children should not be neglected, for by cleaning them, even in the tenderest state, with proper medicine, will prevent a number of diseases - great care should be taken of the second dentition of children."
Fendall seems to have been the only surgeon dentist of record employed by Colonial militia during the Revolution.
A record dated 1782 reveals, "Dr. Benjamin Fendall of Charles County was paid 22 pounds, 5 shillings, 6 pense for professional services rendered to the county militia."
He was dentist to Martha Washington and made a denture for her. In 1799 Fendall wrote to General Washington, enclosing his bill: "To making 4 artificial teeth with an enamel for Mrs. W. for services rendered, twenty-eight dollars."
Significant in the history of dental surgery in Maryland is the fact that when the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery was established in 1840, it had the distinction of being the world's first college for modern dental education.
Dr. J. Ben Robinson, 92, who plans to publish a Bicentennial paper on Benjamin Fendall, served almost 40 years as professor and then dean of the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery which became a department of the University of Maryland School of Dentistry.
George Washington (1732-1794), from having defective teeth, was obliged to patronize dentists; He was from 1754, and possibly earlier, a frequent buyer of tooth brushes, toothpowder, and washes. the following are the names of some of his dentists: Dr's. (Benjamin) Fendall, (Andrew) Spencer, (John) Baker, and John Greenwood (1760-1819)." (The Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, Vol. XVI). He also had the services of Dr's. William Baker, Jean Pierre LeMayeur, James Gardette, Charles Willson Peale (1741-1827) (the painter), and Dr. Whitlock.
Below are excerpts of George Washington's diary, in which he mentions Doctor Benjamin Fendall:
2 December 1797 At Mount Vernon
GW writes: "Doctr. Fendall came in the afternoon".
7 December 1797 At Mount Vernon
GW writes: "Doctr. Fendall went away and Doctr. Stuart came."
According to "Fitzpatrick", author of the Washington Diaries, Vol. I, Washington paid Dr. Benjamin sixty dollars probably for dental work on Martha Washington.
The following is a transcribed letter from George Washington concerning Martha Washington's teeth:
"To Doctor B -- Fendall
Mount Vernon, March 6, 1798
Sir: Mrs. Washington has been long in expectation of receiving what you took away unfinished, and was to have completed and sent to here; and prays that it may be done with out further delay, as she is in want of them; and must apply elsewhere if not done. I am etc...
-George Washington"
Below is a transcribed letter of reply which Benjamin Fendall sent to George Washington in reply to Washington's letter of March 6, 1798 (above) concerning Martha's teeth. This was a year and a half after the letter from George Washington. In the meantime, Mrs. Washington did seek the help from a Dr. Whitlock from Boston. However, Dr. Whitlock was unable to help. It is concluded that she then sought the services of Dr. John Greenwood, George's dentist at that time. The spelling and letters in words used indicates the way Benjamin wrote in the letter. (?) indicates words that could not be made out.
Within this Day, or two, I found myself, so much relieved, from my continued, & painful illnefs. tho I use my left arm with some difficulty, as to be enabled to finish Mrs. Washingtons Teeth, and you'le receive them, safe, I hope, by my servant. They are -- as nearly as I can now recollect -- like the old ones -- & there are so many way, to make, & shape Teetch -- 'twould be almost impofsible, to make 'em, exactly alike -- after some time, without having the old ones present. The Model, I took, has, also, by accident sustained some injury. I am extremely sorry, indeed yr Lady has been obliged to wait so long owing to my long absence from home and my Illnefs, after I had arrived at Cedar Hill. I wish you & Mrs Washington, to have every conviction within yourselves, I ever will, with promptitude, and with pleasure, serve you both, when ever you may choose to Command me -- if in my power, and I (?) flatter myself, youall both seem my excuse to b sufficintly admifsible -- at this Time. Please to present my most Respectful Comps to Mrs Washington, & believe me,
Yours, with due respect,
B. Fendall
Aug. 10th -99
George Washington, to B Fendall - - - (?)
1799 Aug 10 to making artificial Teeth Twenty Eight
with Enamel for Mrs W-n Dollars =
Which if the Genl chooses - he can enclose me by my Servant John - Then c e the above in full
BFendall
Below is an advertisement which appeared in the Alexandria Gazette, dated April 19, 1794:
"...that he had just arrived in this town with a view to remain a short time in the exercise of his profession. His character as a Dentist he trust is so well established as to require no self commendation. Having given many specimens of his abilities in performing the various operations upon the teeth some eight or ten years ago in this place he has it happily in his power to appeal to those persons whose confidence he then obtained for the degree of reputation to which he is entitled.
DR. FENDALL'S resident will be at the House of P.R. Fendall, Esq. where he will be ready to receive an application that may be made to him, and will, upon short notice, wait upon such persons as are disposed to employ him".
* note: P. R. Fendall, Esq., was his Uncle, Philip Richard Fendall I, Esq. (1734-1805), who lived at 614 Oronoco Street in Alexandria. Dr. Fendall periodically visited Alexandria. In 1810 he again placed a special advertisement in The Alexandria Gazette, stating that he had practiced dentistry for 30 years.
Benjamin married first, Anne Marshall (1759-1785) on February 7, 1775 in Charles Co., Maryland.
Benjamin and Anne had the following children:
1) Josias Fendall b. 1-4-1776 Charles Co., MD. (died 10-8-1784 Charles Co., MD.).
2) (a dau.) Fendall b. ca. 1778 Charles Co., MD. (lived only a few hrs.).
3) Dr. Thomas Hanson Marshall Fendall I b. 2-28-1782 Charles Co., MD. d. 8-7-1823 Augusta, Richmond Co., GA.
m. Sara Marshall (Dent) Briscoe (1783).
4) Col. John W. Fendall, Dr. b. 1-29-1784 Charles Co., MD. d. 3-19-1842 Charles Co., MD.
m. Penelope Deye Cockey (1795-1853).
Benjamin married second, Elizabeth "Betsy" (Hughes) Rudolph (1762-1827) on June 27, 1785 Washington Parish, Leedstown, Westmoreland Co., Virginia.
Benjamin and Elizabeth had the following children:
5) Edward Fendall b. 3-30-1786 " Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 9-12-1834 "Woodlawn", Baltimore Co., MD.
m. Frances Thwaites "Fannie" Cockey (1794-1874).
6) Anne L. Fendall b. 10-13-1788 "Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 1829 Charles Co., MD.
m. Thomas Buchanan
7) 2nd Lt. Philip Richard Fendall b. 1789 "Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 1-24-1821 "Cedar Grove", near Allen's Fresh, Charles Co., MD. (never married)
Benjamin was born at his father's estate "Cedar Point", near Port Tobacco, Charles Co., Maryland. In 1763, at the age of nine, according to his father John Fendall's will, Benjamin inherited all that tract and parcel of land which "I bought of Benjamin Thomas lying near Cedar Point". From this land, he built and resided at his estate " Cedar Park". In his father's will, Benjamin was to be "put under care and tuition of Doctor James Bayard". By 1773, Benjamin testified that he was prepared to practice "physic and surgery", suggesting that Dr. James Asheton Bayard, Sr. (1738-1769) had honored the provisions in John Fendall's will. For the next six years he devoted and dedicated his time and attention to the art of dentistry, probably alongside Dr. John Baker, who had immigrated from England in 1760. John was the first dentist to practice in America, and began work in Boston at or before 1763. It was Baker who trained the famed Paul Revere.
Dr. James Gardette (1756-1831), frequently referred to as the first medically trained dentist to practice in America, began his work at Plymouth, Massachusetts, about 1778; while Dr. Josiah Flagg, Jr. (ca. 1763-1816), usually referred to as the "first native-born American dentist", began the practice of his profession about 1783. It is also shown that Dr. Isaac Greenwood, Sr., who was a part-time dentist in Boston, did not begin practicing dentistry until 1779. It is thus shown that Fendall pre-dates both Gardette, Flagg, and Greenwood by a number of years.
He is said to have attained great distinction, practicing as far north as Philadelphia and south to Richmond and Petersburg. In 1778 in contradistinction to his uncle Benjamin Fendall II (1739-1786), he signed the Oath of Allegiance and Fidelity in Charles County. In 1782 Benjamin was paid 22.5.6 pounds for professional services rendered to the County Militia. Thus, Benjamin is known not only as the first native born American dentist, but also the only surgeon dentist known to have rendered dental services to Revolutionary soldiers. He was appointed in 1784 a Justice of the Charles County Court. Benjamin had the distinction of working on Martha Washington's (and possibly George's) teeth. On top of being a fine dentist, he was also a prominent physician.
Along with his estate " Cedar Park", Benjamin also owned two other tracts of land. The first was listed in Upper Hundred, William & Mary Parish, Charles County, of the 1775-1778 census. The second was also in the 1775-1778 census as being in Pomonokey Hundred, Charles County. In the census of 1790 he was listed as the owner of twenty-six slaves.
On February 10, 1795, Benjamin purchased two tracts from Henry Francis Dade Yates (1765), from King George Co., Virginia for 267 pounds, 14 shillings, nine pence. The two tracts of land had previously belonged to Charles Yates (d. 1795). They consisted of " Yates Medows", 95 acres, and " Manchester", 100 acres. This land was on the Wicomico River in Charles Co., Maryland.
OUTSTANDING COLONIAL DENTIST OFFERS SERVICES IN ANNAPOLIS
The evening Sun Accent...On People...Arts...Leisure
Baltimore, Wednesday, January 28, 1976
by Josephine Novak
Dr. Benjamin Fendall places his first announcement in the Maryland Gazette of Annapolis. It appears August 15, 1776:
"Operator upon the TEETH, is just arrived in this city on his way to Baltimore, and intends returning about the middle of September next.
He cures the scurvy in the Gums, be it ever so bad; first cleans and scales the teeth from the corrosive, tartarous, gritty substance which impedes the gums from growing...He prevents teeth from growing rotten, keeps such as are decayed from growing worse; even to old age, makes the gums grow firm up to the teeth, and renders them white and beautiful...He fills up, with gold or lead, those that are hollow...He transplants natural teeth from one person to another which will be as firm in the jaw, without any ligament, as if they originally grew there...His DENTIFRICE is quite free from any corrosive preparation."
Benjamin Fendall, the first native-American surgeon-dentist, was born near Port Tobacco, Charles County, about 1753.
He was four generations removed from Gov. Josias Fendall (ca. 1628-1687), fourth provincial governor of Maryland (1656-1660), and he seems to have been a man of considerable means.
According to J. Ben Robinson, D. D. S., in his book "Foundations of Professional Dentistry" in America got under way in 1766.
"Benjamin Fendall," the book says,"...stands at the head of the dentists in Eighteenth century America."
He began his practice in Maryland in 1773. Continuing to work for 35 years, he conducted his extensive practice as far north as Philadelphia and as far south as Richmond.
At the time of the Declaration of Independence, he was one of 15 professional dentists practicing in Maryland and one of 79 in the 13 colonies.
All of them were obliged to contend with incompetent pretenders and found it necessary to advertise to protect themselves from the ones attached to dentistry by the work of charlatans.
Benjamin Fendall's newspaper communications to the public were numerous.
Through them, modern dentists have judged him to be adequately prepared for his time in both medicine and surgery. He was also familiar with the European practice of dentistry.
James Bayard of Charles County was his medical preceptor. Fendall mentions his medical training in 1779:
"Though bred to physic and surgery, I have, for these six years past devoted and dedicated my whole time and attention to that part of surgery which concerns the dentist's art."
In July, 1784, the following advertisement appeared in the Maryland Journal and Baltimore Advertiser:
"DOCTOR FENDALL having just arrived in town, has taken up his residence, for a few weeks, at Miss Young's in Calvert street. It is not solely by Lucre, or pecuniary Views, the Doctor is prompted to offer his assistance to the Public; he is urged by a Desire to serve them; kind Fortune has made him independent and placed him far above the hungry Tooth of Want.
When he fixes in artificial teeth, if not more than for, he gives them an Enamel which will preserve its whiteness by Care, and entirely retain it. This method of fixing Teeth, is different now from all former Methods..."
A year earlier, he was giving attention to Childrens teeth:
"July 1783 - The doctor thinks the teeth of children should not be neglected, for by cleaning them, even in the tenderest state, with proper medicine, will prevent a number of diseases - great care should be taken of the second dentition of children."
Fendall seems to have been the only surgeon dentist of record employed by Colonial militia during the Revolution.
A record dated 1782 reveals, "Dr. Benjamin Fendall of Charles County was paid 22 pounds, 5 shillings, 6 pense for professional services rendered to the county militia."
He was dentist to Martha Washington and made a denture for her. In 1799 Fendall wrote to General Washington, enclosing his bill: "To making 4 artificial teeth with an enamel for Mrs. W. for services rendered, twenty-eight dollars."
Significant in the history of dental surgery in Maryland is the fact that when the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery was established in 1840, it had the distinction of being the world's first college for modern dental education.
Dr. J. Ben Robinson, 92, who plans to publish a Bicentennial paper on Benjamin Fendall, served almost 40 years as professor and then dean of the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery which became a department of the University of Maryland School of Dentistry.
George Washington (1732-1794), from having defective teeth, was obliged to patronize dentists; He was from 1754, and possibly earlier, a frequent buyer of tooth brushes, toothpowder, and washes. the following are the names of some of his dentists: Dr's. (Benjamin) Fendall, (Andrew) Spencer, (John) Baker, and John Greenwood (1760-1819)." (The Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, Vol. XVI). He also had the services of Dr's. William Baker, Jean Pierre LeMayeur, James Gardette, Charles Willson Peale (1741-1827) (the painter), and Dr. Whitlock.
Below are excerpts of George Washington's diary, in which he mentions Doctor Benjamin Fendall:
2 December 1797 At Mount Vernon
GW writes: "Doctr. Fendall came in the afternoon".
7 December 1797 At Mount Vernon
GW writes: "Doctr. Fendall went away and Doctr. Stuart came."
According to "Fitzpatrick", author of the Washington Diaries, Vol. I, Washington paid Dr. Benjamin sixty dollars probably for dental work on Martha Washington.
The following is a transcribed letter from George Washington concerning Martha Washington's teeth:
"To Doctor B -- Fendall
Mount Vernon, March 6, 1798
Sir: Mrs. Washington has been long in expectation of receiving what you took away unfinished, and was to have completed and sent to here; and prays that it may be done with out further delay, as she is in want of them; and must apply elsewhere if not done. I am etc...
-George Washington"
Below is a transcribed letter of reply which Benjamin Fendall sent to George Washington in reply to Washington's letter of March 6, 1798 (above) concerning Martha's teeth. This was a year and a half after the letter from George Washington. In the meantime, Mrs. Washington did seek the help from a Dr. Whitlock from Boston. However, Dr. Whitlock was unable to help. It is concluded that she then sought the services of Dr. John Greenwood, George's dentist at that time. The spelling and letters in words used indicates the way Benjamin wrote in the letter. (?) indicates words that could not be made out.
Within this Day, or two, I found myself, so much relieved, from my continued, & painful illnefs. tho I use my left arm with some difficulty, as to be enabled to finish Mrs. Washingtons Teeth, and you'le receive them, safe, I hope, by my servant. They are -- as nearly as I can now recollect -- like the old ones -- & there are so many way, to make, & shape Teetch -- 'twould be almost impofsible, to make 'em, exactly alike -- after some time, without having the old ones present. The Model, I took, has, also, by accident sustained some injury. I am extremely sorry, indeed yr Lady has been obliged to wait so long owing to my long absence from home and my Illnefs, after I had arrived at Cedar Hill. I wish you & Mrs Washington, to have every conviction within yourselves, I ever will, with promptitude, and with pleasure, serve you both, when ever you may choose to Command me -- if in my power, and I (?) flatter myself, youall both seem my excuse to b sufficintly admifsible -- at this Time. Please to present my most Respectful Comps to Mrs Washington, & believe me,
Yours, with due respect,
B. Fendall
Aug. 10th -99
George Washington, to B Fendall - - - (?)
1799 Aug 10 to making artificial Teeth Twenty Eight
with Enamel for Mrs W-n Dollars =
Which if the Genl chooses - he can enclose me by my Servant John - Then c e the above in full
BFendall
Below is an advertisement which appeared in the Alexandria Gazette, dated April 19, 1794:
"...that he had just arrived in this town with a view to remain a short time in the exercise of his profession. His character as a Dentist he trust is so well established as to require no self commendation. Having given many specimens of his abilities in performing the various operations upon the teeth some eight or ten years ago in this place he has it happily in his power to appeal to those persons whose confidence he then obtained for the degree of reputation to which he is entitled.
DR. FENDALL'S resident will be at the House of P.R. Fendall, Esq. where he will be ready to receive an application that may be made to him, and will, upon short notice, wait upon such persons as are disposed to employ him".
* note: P. R. Fendall, Esq., was his Uncle, Philip Richard Fendall I, Esq. (1734-1805), who lived at 614 Oronoco Street in Alexandria. Dr. Fendall periodically visited Alexandria. In 1810 he again placed a special advertisement in The Alexandria Gazette, stating that he had practiced dentistry for 30 years.
Benjamin and Anne had the following children:
1) Josias Fendall b. 1-4-1776 Charles Co., MD. (died 10-8-1784 Charles Co., MD.).
2) (a dau.) Fendall b. ca. 1778 Charles Co., MD. (lived only a few hrs.).
3) Dr. Thomas Hanson Marshall Fendall I b. 2-28-1782 Charles Co., MD. d. 8-7-1823 Augusta, Richmond Co., GA.
m. Sara Marshall (Dent) Briscoe (1783).
4) Col. John W. Fendall, Dr. b. 1-29-1784 Charles Co., MD. d. 3-19-1842 Charles Co., MD.
m. Penelope Deye Cockey (1795-1853).
Benjamin married second, Elizabeth "Betsy" (Hughes) Rudolph (1762-1827) on June 27, 1785 Washington Parish, Leedstown, Westmoreland Co., Virginia.
Benjamin and Elizabeth had the following children:
5) Edward Fendall b. 3-30-1786 " Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 9-12-1834 "Woodlawn", Baltimore Co., MD.
m. Frances Thwaites "Fannie" Cockey (1794-1874).
6) Anne L. Fendall b. 10-13-1788 "Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 1829 Charles Co., MD.
m. Thomas Buchanan
7) 2nd Lt. Philip Richard Fendall b. 1789 "Cedar Park", Charles Co., MD. d. 1-24-1821 "Cedar Grove", near Allen's Fresh, Charles Co., MD. (never married)
Benjamin was born at his father's estate "Cedar Point", near Port Tobacco, Charles Co., Maryland. In 1763, at the age of nine, according to his father John Fendall's will, Benjamin inherited all that tract and parcel of land which "I bought of Benjamin Thomas lying near Cedar Point". From this land, he built and resided at his estate " Cedar Park". In his father's will, Benjamin was to be "put under care and tuition of Doctor James Bayard". By 1773, Benjamin testified that he was prepared to practice "physic and surgery", suggesting that Dr. James Asheton Bayard, Sr. (1738-1769) had honored the provisions in John Fendall's will. For the next six years he devoted and dedicated his time and attention to the art of dentistry, probably alongside Dr. John Baker, who had immigrated from England in 1760. John was the first dentist to practice in America, and began work in Boston at or before 1763. It was Baker who trained the famed Paul Revere.
Dr. James Gardette (1756-1831), frequently referred to as the first medically trained dentist to practice in America, began his work at Plymouth, Massachusetts, about 1778; while Dr. Josiah Flagg, Jr. (ca. 1763-1816), usually referred to as the "first native-born American dentist", began the practice of his profession about 1783. It is also shown that Dr. Isaac Greenwood, Sr., who was a part-time dentist in Boston, did not begin practicing dentistry until 1779. It is thus shown that Fendall pre-dates both Gardette, Flagg, and Greenwood by a number of years.
He is said to have attained great distinction, practicing as far north as Philadelphia and south to Richmond and Petersburg. In 1778 in contradistinction to his uncle Benjamin Fendall II (1739-1786), he signed the Oath of Allegiance and Fidelity in Charles County. In 1782 Benjamin was paid 22.5.6 pounds for professional services rendered to the County Militia. Thus, Benjamin is known not only as the first native born American dentist, but also the only surgeon dentist known to have rendered dental services to Revolutionary soldiers. He was appointed in 1784 a Justice of the Charles County Court. Benjamin had the distinction of working on Martha Washington's (and possibly George's) teeth. On top of being a fine dentist, he was also a prominent physician.
Along with his estate " Cedar Park", Benjamin also owned two other tracts of land. The first was listed in Upper Hundred, William & Mary Parish, Charles County, of the 1775-1778 census. The second was also in the 1775-1778 census as being in Pomonokey Hundred, Charles County. In the census of 1790 he was listed as the owner of twenty-six slaves.
On February 10, 1795, Benjamin purchased two tracts from Henry Francis Dade Yates (1765), from King George Co., Virginia for 267 pounds, 14 shillings, nine pence. The two tracts of land had previously belonged to Charles Yates (d. 1795). They consisted of " Yates Medows", 95 acres, and " Manchester", 100 acres. This land was on the Wicomico River in Charles Co., Maryland.
OUTSTANDING COLONIAL DENTIST OFFERS SERVICES IN ANNAPOLIS
The evening Sun Accent...On People...Arts...Leisure
Baltimore, Wednesday, January 28, 1976
by Josephine Novak
Dr. Benjamin Fendall places his first announcement in the Maryland Gazette of Annapolis. It appears August 15, 1776:
"Operator upon the TEETH, is just arrived in this city on his way to Baltimore, and intends returning about the middle of September next.
He cures the scurvy in the Gums, be it ever so bad; first cleans and scales the teeth from the corrosive, tartarous, gritty substance which impedes the gums from growing...He prevents teeth from growing rotten, keeps such as are decayed from growing worse; even to old age, makes the gums grow firm up to the teeth, and renders them white and beautiful...He fills up, with gold or lead, those that are hollow...He transplants natural teeth from one person to another which will be as firm in the jaw, without any ligament, as if they originally grew there...His DENTIFRICE is quite free from any corrosive preparation."
Benjamin Fendall, the first native-American surgeon-dentist, was born near Port Tobacco, Charles County, about 1753.
He was four generations removed from Gov. Josias Fendall (ca. 1628-1687), fourth provincial governor of Maryland (1656-1660), and he seems to have been a man of considerable means.
According to J. Ben Robinson, D. D. S., in his book "Foundations of Professional Dentistry" in America got under way in 1766.
"Benjamin Fendall," the book says,"...stands at the head of the dentists in Eighteenth century America."
He began his practice in Maryland in 1773. Continuing to work for 35 years, he conducted his extensive practice as far north as Philadelphia and as far south as Richmond.
At the time of the Declaration of Independence, he was one of 15 professional dentists practicing in Maryland and one of 79 in the 13 colonies.
All of them were obliged to contend with incompetent pretenders and found it necessary to advertise to protect themselves from the ones attached to dentistry by the work of charlatans.
Benjamin Fendall's newspaper communications to the public were numerous.
Through them, modern dentists have judged him to be adequately prepared for his time in both medicine and surgery. He was also familiar with the European practice of dentistry.
James Bayard of Charles County was his medical preceptor. Fendall mentions his medical training in 1779:
"Though bred to physic and surgery, I have, for these six years past devoted and dedicated my whole time and attention to that part of surgery which concerns the dentist's art."
In July, 1784, the following advertisement appeared in the Maryland Journal and Baltimore Advertiser:
"DOCTOR FENDALL having just arrived in town, has taken up his residence, for a few weeks, at Miss Young's in Calvert street. It is not solely by Lucre, or pecuniary Views, the Doctor is prompted to offer his assistance to the Public; he is urged by a Desire to serve them; kind Fortune has made him independent and placed him far above the hungry Tooth of Want.
When he fixes in artificial teeth, if not more than for, he gives them an Enamel which will preserve its whiteness by Care, and entirely retain it. This method of fixing Teeth, is different now from all former Methods..."
A year earlier, he was giving attention to Childrens teeth:
"July 1783 - The doctor thinks the teeth of children should not be neglected, for by cleaning them, even in the tenderest state, with proper medicine, will prevent a number of diseases - great care should be taken of the second dentition of children."
Fendall seems to have been the only surgeon dentist of record employed by Colonial militia during the Revolution.
A record dated 1782 reveals, "Dr. Benjamin Fendall of Charles County was paid 22 pounds, 5 shillings, 6 pense for professional services rendered to the county militia."
He was dentist to Martha Washington and made a denture for her. In 1799 Fendall wrote to General Washington, enclosing his bill: "To making 4 artificial teeth with an enamel for Mrs. W. for services rendered, twenty-eight dollars."
Significant in the history of dental surgery in Maryland is the fact that when the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery was established in 1840, it had the distinction of being the world's first college for modern dental education.
Dr. J. Ben Robinson, 92, who plans to publish a Bicentennial paper on Benjamin Fendall, served almost 40 years as professor and then dean of the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery which became a department of the University of Maryland School of Dentistry.
George Washington (1732-1794), from having defective teeth, was obliged to patronize dentists; He was from 1754, and possibly earlier, a frequent buyer of tooth brushes, toothpowder, and washes. the following are the names of some of his dentists: Dr's. (Benjamin) Fendall, (Andrew) Spencer, (John) Baker, and John Greenwood (1760-1819)." (The Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, Vol. XVI). He also had the services of Dr's. William Baker, Jean Pierre LeMayeur, James Gardette, Charles Willson Peale (1741-1827) (the painter), and Dr. Whitlock.
Below are excerpts of George Washington's diary, in which he mentions Doctor Benjamin Fendall:
2 December 1797 At Mount Vernon
GW writes: "Doctr. Fendall came in the afternoon".
7 December 1797 At Mount Vernon
GW writes: "Doctr. Fendall went away and Doctr. Stuart came."
According to "Fitzpatrick", author of the Washington Diaries, Vol. I, Washington paid Dr. Benjamin sixty dollars probably for dental work on Martha Washington.
The following is a transcribed letter from George Washington concerning Martha Washington's teeth:
"To Doctor B -- Fendall
Mount Vernon, March 6, 1798
Sir: Mrs. Washington has been long in expectation of receiving what you took away unfinished, and was to have completed and sent to here; and prays that it may be done with out further delay, as she is in want of them; and must apply elsewhere if not done. I am etc...
-George Washington"
Below is a transcribed letter of reply which Benjamin Fendall sent to George Washington in reply to Washington's letter of March 6, 1798 (above) concerning Martha's teeth. This was a year and a half after the letter from George Washington. In the meantime, Mrs. Washington did seek the help from a Dr. Whitlock from Boston. However, Dr. Whitlock was unable to help. It is concluded that she then sought the services of Dr. John Greenwood, George's dentist at that time. The spelling and letters in words used indicates the way Benjamin wrote in the letter. (?) indicates words that could not be made out.
Within this Day, or two, I found myself, so much relieved, from my continued, & painful illnefs. tho I use my left arm with some difficulty, as to be enabled to finish Mrs. Washingtons Teeth, and you'le receive them, safe, I hope, by my servant. They are -- as nearly as I can now recollect -- like the old ones -- & there are so many way, to make, & shape Teetch -- 'twould be almost impofsible, to make 'em, exactly alike -- after some time, without having the old ones present. The Model, I took, has, also, by accident sustained some injury. I am extremely sorry, indeed yr Lady has been obliged to wait so long owing to my long absence from home and my Illnefs, after I had arrived at Cedar Hill. I wish you & Mrs Washington, to have every conviction within yourselves, I ever will, with promptitude, and with pleasure, serve you both, when ever you may choose to Command me -- if in my power, and I (?) flatter myself, youall both seem my excuse to b sufficintly admifsible -- at this Time. Please to present my most Respectful Comps to Mrs Washington, & believe me,
Yours, with due respect,
B. Fendall
Aug. 10th -99
George Washington, to B Fendall - - - (?)
1799 Aug 10 to making artificial Teeth Twenty Eight
with Enamel for Mrs W-n Dollars =
Which if the Genl chooses - he can enclose me by my Servant John - Then c e the above in full
BFendall
Below is an advertisement which appeared in the Alexandria Gazette, dated April 19, 1794:
"...that he had just arrived in this town with a view to remain a short time in the exercise of his profession. His character as a Dentist he trust is so well established as to require no self commendation. Having given many specimens of his abilities in performing the various operations upon the teeth some eight or ten years ago in this place he has it happily in his power to appeal to those persons whose confidence he then obtained for the degree of reputation to which he is entitled.
DR. FENDALL'S resident will be at the House of P.R. Fendall, Esq. where he will be ready to receive an application that may be made to him, and will, upon short notice, wait upon such persons as are disposed to employ him".
* note: P. R. Fendall, Esq., was his Uncle, Philip Richard Fendall I, Esq. (1734-1805), who lived at 614 Oronoco Street in Alexandria. Dr. Fendall periodically visited Alexandria. In 1810 he again placed a special advertisement in The Alexandria Gazette, stating that he had practiced dentistry for 30 years.
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