MUSEUM BLOG
The Wild and Wacky World of Drug Advertisements
Back in the late 1800s, a time where saying yes to drugs might have actually been encouraged, patent medicines promised wild and wonderful cures. These medicines, as opposed to those prescribed by a doctor, were loosely regulated; leading to extravagant claims and dangerous, often unlisted, ingredients. From cure-alls to cough syrup, these medicines promised to treat a variety of ailments for those who could not afford a private doctor’s visit, although they would often do more harm than good.
Lydia E. Pinkham: Life and Legacy
Although she only turned to the commercial creation of medicine during the last eight years of her life, Pinkham experienced within that brief timeframe meteoric success as a producer of medicines marketed exclusively for women. Within her lifetime, Pinkham became a cultural icon.
Spotlight on Patent Medicines - Dr. William Hall's Balsam for the Lungs
In the mid-to-late twentieth century, advertising trade cards were important for circulating information about patent medicines, or “over-the-counter” drugs. Dr. William Hall’s Balsam was printed by the Donaldson Brothers of Five Points, New York, a popular advertiser from 1872 to 1891.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Waiting
To open up the Museum of Health Care’s artefact collection we are participating in WordPress’ Weekly Photo Challenge. Based on WordPress’ randomly chosen themes, we’ll offer a serendipitous peek into our collection. Check in each week for a new curiosity.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Family
To open up the Museum of Health Care’s artefact collection we are participating in WordPress’ Weekly Photo Challenge. Based on WordPress’ randomly chosen themes, we’ll offer a serendipitous peek into our collection. Check in each week for a new curiosity.
Weekly Photo Challenge: Sunset
To open up the Museum of Health Care’s artefact collection we are participating in WordPress’ Weekly Photo Challenge. Based on WordPress’ randomly chosen themes, we’ll offer a serendipitous peek into our collection. Check in each week for a new curiosity.