In this enlightened age when men of energy and industry are constantly pushing their way to the front, those who have gained success may properly claim recognition. Dr. Burns, in a profession where advancement comes only through individual merit, has gained a most extensive practice, second to none in the county. A native of Scotland, he was born in Perth, on the 18th of October, 1867, and is descended from Scotch ancestry in the paternal line, while in the maternal line he comes of Irish lineage. His grandfather, James Burns, was also a native of Perth and in 1869 he came to America, locating in Bedford, Pennsylvania. His son, Thomas Burns, father of Dr. Burns, was also born in Perth, and was married to Miss Helen Russell, whose birth occurred in Sligo, Ireland. The year following the arrival of James Burns, Thomas Burns crossed the Atlantic and established his home at Johnstown, Pennsylvania, where he still resides. His ancestors were ironworkers and many of their descendants still continue in that line of industrial activity.

Dr. Burns accompanied his grandfather to the United States and after acquiring his early education in the public schools, during which time he mastered the common branches of English learning, he entered the University of Virginia, in which institution he remained for two years. During that time he made choice of a life work and in preparation therefor he matriculated in the Eclectic Medical Institute, at Cincinnati, Ohio, from which he was graduated in the class of 1892. Dr. Burns entered upon the active practice of medicine in Ohio but after a year come to Carrollton, where he has since remained.

In August, 1895, Dr. Burns was married to Miss Edith Fishback, a native of Greene county, Illinois, and a daughter of Judge Frederick Fishback, a leading and representative citizen of Carrollton. Dr. and Mrs. Burns are prominent socially and enjoy the highest regard of many friends. He is a Mason, belongs to the Mystic Shrine, is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen of America. In his political views he is a Democrat. He belongs to the County and State Medical Societies and in his practice has met with most gratifying success, having a very extensive practice.