Hans Caspar Hirzel

Hirzel (in 1787?)

Hans Caspar Hirzel (21 March 1725 - 18 February 1803), also known or spelt as - Herzil John Caspar, Kaspar Hirzel, Johann Kasper Herzel, or John Kaspar Hirzel -, was an eminent Swiss physician and writer on rural economy.

He was born at Zürich, 1725, and adopted medical profession by his learning and intelligence. He distinguished himself in lecturing on theory and practice of medicine, including instructions to female accoucheurs. He was one of the principal founders of Helvetic Society in 1726, others were - Isaak Iselin, Salomon Gessner, and some 20 others.

He translated the works of Tissot into German; subsequently, published a Treatise on Rural Economy, in acquaintance with a Swiss farmer, who is distinguished for his agriculture industry and skill, Caspar Hirzel conceived the notion of publishing the result of this man's[Swiss farmer] experience in his agricultural occupation, including facts and observations from other sources. This undertaking was published as a work entitled The Rustic Socrates, which had been later translated into English language by Arthur Young, and into other languages of Europe.

Hirzel also authored some historical Eulogies, also dialogues on religion and tolerance. He died of apoplexy on 19 February 1803.