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Nazareth Margoschis College at Pillaiyanmanai - Tamil

Arthur Margoschis was a notable British Christian missionary who significantly impacted the town of Nazareth in Tamil Nadu, India, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born on December 24, 1852, in London, Margoschis was affiliated with the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts (SPG).


Arthur Margoschis was born in the village of Leamington, Warwickshire in England on December 24, 1852. His parents were Thomas David Samuel Margoschis and Mary Anne Margoschis. Arthur Margoschis was the youngest of eight children. Arthur's father was a Polish Jew and was baptized into the Church of England prior to his marriage. 

At age 11 young Arthur attended the Grammar School of Maltram-in-Longdendale, Cheshire, and afterwards a school at Cowley, near Oxford. At 17, Arthur who had distinguished himself with his knowledge of Scripture, entered the mission college of Warminster, followed by St. Augustine’s Canterbury.

After finishing his course at St. Augustine’s, Margoschis went to London and enrolled as a medical student at St. George’s Hospital. He appeared at the Primary examination in Anatomy and Physiology at the Royal College of Surgeons. Before appearing for the M.R.C.S and L.R.C.P, Arthur responded to the call to missions by Robert Caldwell, missionary to Tirunelveli.

When his friends and relatives asked him to not be in a hurry, but complete his studies, Arthur’s answer was, “this is not a job that I can do according to my own convenience”. He started immediately for India.


Margoschis arrived in India in 1875 and soon began his mission work in Nazareth. His efforts extended beyond religious teaching; he was deeply involved in social and educational reforms. Margoschis established schools, orphanages, and hospitals, greatly improving the living conditions and educational opportunities for the local population. His dedication to the people of Nazareth earned him the affectionate title "Father of Nazareth." He played a crucial role in developing the St. Luke's Hospital, providing much-needed medical care to the community.


Margoschis was known for his linguistic skills, mastering Tamil to effectively communicate and engage with the local population. His work fostered a spirit of inclusivity and understanding between different cultural and religious groups in the area.


Arthur Margoschis passed away on April 27, 1908, but his legacy lives on in the institutions he founded and the positive changes he brought to the community of Nazareth. His life and work remain a testament to the profound impact of dedicated missionary work in promoting education, healthcare, and social welfare.