James Julian Chisolm Jr. ’44

Jules died on June 20, 2001, in Baltimore. He came to Princeton from Gilman and played on the lacrosse team, was president of the Madison Debating Society and news editor of the Prince. He majored in chemistry.

He received his MD from Johns Hopkins in 1946 and spent five years in clinical pediatrics and biomedical research, interrupted by Army service mostly in Germany. He became interested in lead-related blood poisoning in children, and dedicated himself to research ways to extract lead from those so poisoned. In its obituary, the New York Times noted, "Dr. Chisolm is credited with saving the lives of hundreds of children with his introduction of a treatment called chelation." His publications helped persuade many cities, including New York, to ban lead paint. He testified before Congress in support of a 1978 federal law which virtually banned the use of lead, the use of which dropped 78% in the next 15 years.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sylvia, a son Edward, and his sister, Mary Mountcastle. Saving lives and improving the health of thousands was his legacy to "Princeton in the nation's service." We are humble in the light of his accomplishments.

The Class of 1944