Dr. Benjamin McGehee
The historical background for Lamentations and Magic's reluctant hero.
Last month, we detailed the background of my leading lady, Louisa Sophia, and this month, we’ll explore the man, the myth (he is made up after all), and archaeologist Dr. Benjamin McGehee.
Born Feb, 20, 1845
Birthplace Fanon County, Texas
Parents
Father - James Moore McGehee
Mother - Agnes McCubbin
Education
Homeschooled by his medical doctor/surgeon father until age seventeen. Taught to read Ancient Greek and Latin.
Attended the University of Georgia from 1865 - 1868, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.
Attended University of North Carolina from 1868-1870 and received a Bachelor of Arts.
Moved to London, England, and attended the Imperial College of Medicine from 1870 - to 1873, receiving a Medical Doctor degree while also attending University College London to receive a Master of Philosophy.
Favorite Quote
For a man to conquer himself is the first and noblest of victories - Plato
Favorite Sayings
God's able if I/you/we are willing.
Favorite Weapon
Winchester 1873 .44-40 carbine, named Agnes.
More Research Notes About Ben
When creating Ben’s historical background, I cheated a smidge by using some of my ancestorial history. My fourth great-grandfather, James Moore Cowdrey, was a surgeon in the Civil War. He was married to Agnes McCubbin, and at least three of his sons fought in the war.
I fictionalized most of his other family details.
That said, I conducted extensive research to ensure a living person could have accomplished those details during the time in question. For example, all the schools listed above, offered Ben’s actual degrees. For example, Georgia offered a civil engineering degree in 1868.
My need to make sure the real history matches my imagined story is a bit obsessive, but filling in these little details for my characters has led me to heaps of rich material.
Who was the physical inspiration for Ben?
I tried to use the picture of a soldier from the Civil War. He was quite a handsome fellow, but the sketch based on him didn’t feel right and I ended up using this guy. At least he is a fellow Texan.
