Thomas Hewlett was born in Abington, Berkshire, son of Rev J. T. Hewlett, an Anglican clergyman. He was educated at Wantage Grammar School, and afterwards became apprentice to a Dr. Lister, at Doncaster, Yorkshire, proceeding later on to St. Bartholomew's Hospital, London, where in 1858 he obtained his diplomas of M.R.C.S., England, and L.S.A., London. Subsequently be joined the second battalion of the 19th Regiment, and for a time was stationed at Cork, Ireland. Shortly after the close of the Indian mutiny, the regiment was ordered to India. He remained there until 1862 when he resigned his commission and migrated to Australia.
In Melbourne, Dr Hewlett entered general practice in Nicholson Street, Fitzroy, where he continued for the next 44 years. He was elected President of the Medical Society of Victoria in 1882. The main concerns of the Society were with anticipated amendments to the Medical Act and with complaints about inadequate fees paid to medical men in Court cases. Their representations did lead to a deputation to the Government of the day. The monthly meetings of the Society were mainly occupied by presentations of scientific papers and exhibits of pathological specimens for discussion.
Dr Hewlett was a member of the Medical Board of Victoria. He died in 1904, survived by his second wife and two sons, one of whom was a physician.
Last updated 8 April 2025.
Source: Trove, Leader (Melb), Sat 8 Oct 1904, p.36.; Trove, Table Talk, Thurs 8/9/1904,p.13.