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Isaac M. Ridge, the pioneer physician, was born July
9, 1825, in Adair county, Kentucky, but transferred his residence to
Lafayette county, Mo., in 1833. He was educated in private
school and in an academy at Dover, and also read medicine in that
town.
He afterwards entered the Transylvania
University, Lexington, Ky., and was graduated in 1848. He
returned to Kansas City, then Westport landing, and opened an office
on the levee. He was the only physician then, and for some time
afterwards, and his journeys covered deep into Missouri and out into
Kansas. The cholera epidemic in 1849 found a worthy foe in Dr.
Ridge, although his herculean labors finally led to an attack of the
disease. He recovered by a miracle almost. In 1875, Dr. Ridge retired from active
practice, and has since devoted his time to his immense property
interests. The Ridge building and Masonic building, built and
owned by him are monuments that will endure. Public-spirited to
the last degree he has given freely of land and money to the city,
with no other hope than to see it grow in greatness. Dr. Ridge
was made a Master Mason in 1849, the first in Kansas City, and is a
Shriner. He was married in 1850 to Miss Eliza Smart, long since
deceased. Five children were born of this marriage, three of
whom are living. In 1882, he married Miss May D. Campbell, noted
for her charm, beauty and wonderful musical talent.
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