Display: In the Medicine Chest

The current display at the District of Lake Country office takes us into a medicine chest of the past. There is a ‘French Ivory’ grooming set consisting of brushes, buffing pads, and a nail file. French Ivory is a manmade celluloid product used from the 1860s to the mid 1900s. There are also vintage razors and blades, clippers, and a shaving mug and brush. Three hair colouring products complete the personal grooming section. A variety of medicines are also featured. Dr. Miles’ Compound and pills promise to cure many symptoms. Other products on display include Effervescent Alkalithia, Zam-Buk, Gin Pills, Scott’s Emulsion, Dreco Tonic, and Alka Zane. One of the more unusual artifacts is a stoneware hot water bottle. To see many more health products, visit the Patent Medicine Collection in the Anne Land Room at the Lake Country Museum.

June 2014