The Life of Dr. Baldwin L Keyes

Dr. Baldwin L. Keyes, 100
Leader in Psychiatric Field

Baldwin Longstreth Keyes, M.D. 100, of Wynnewood, the longest living alumnus at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital's School of Medicine, founding chairman of the psychiatry department there and professor emeritus, died Monday at Saunder's House in Wynnewood.

Born in Rio de Janeiro on July 29, 1893, to American parents, he was reared in the mountain and jungle country near Rio and received his early education in mission schools. After a brief period in London, he came to the United States to complete his education and attend the University of Pennsylvania. In 1917, he received his medical degree from Thomas Jefferson University Hospital Medical School.

The day after he graduated he volunteered to become a combat surgeon with Gordon Highlander, of the most decorated combat units with World War I.

In 1929, he returned to Jefferson to organize a child psychiatric clinic in the Pediatric department, the first clinic of its kind in the United States.In 1935 be became clinical professor of psychiatry and, in 1936, professor of psychiatry and head of the department of psychiatry at Jefferson.

During World War II, Dr. Keyes served as commanding officer of Jefferson's 28th General Hospital Unit for the U.S. Army in Egypt. He achieved the rank of colonel and, in July 1954 finished 37 years of service as a commissioned officer in the Army's Medical Department.

After returning to the United States, he returned to Jefferson University Hospital. He retired from Jefferson in 1959 at age 65, but continued to teach on the honor faculty.

Dr. Keyes is survived by his wife of 45 years, Margaret Robertson Keyes, and several nieces and nephews.
,br> Memorial Servicess will be held at 11:00AM today at the United Methodist Church of Ardmore, Linwood and Argyle Avenues in Ardmore.

Memorial contributions, in his memory may be made to Alumni Annual Giving of Jefferson Medical College, 1020 Locust St., Room M41, Philadelphia, PA. 19107