The Black Swamp Medicine Girls are coming to the Montpelier Public Library on Tuesday, March 28, at 6:00 PM for a program entitled, “An Evening of Vintage Apothecary History”. Jeanne Caryer and Susan Wiesehan will demonstrate examples of antique medical devices and treatments. They will also have a diverse display of vintage patent medicine bottles, pharmacy items, and advertising that participants may explore.
As part of their presentation, Jeanne and Susan explore history of vintage medicine bottles, diseases of the Great Black Swamp, and treatments for such ailments as consumption, quincy, lumbago, rheumatism, bad breath, and gout.
Participants will learn about the old medicine show sales pitches and how one-half dollar could buy you a treatment that could cure everything from baldness to curvature of the spine.
One will also discover the adventures of medicine shows in the 1850’s through the 1930’s and how traveling groups put on performances peddling their miracle cures, elixirs, and devices guaranteed to improve one’s health.
Preceeding the program is a spaghetti casserole dinner, salad, and dessert. Tickets are available at the Montpelier Public Library for a cost of $7.00 for one and $12.00 for two. This informative and entertaining presentation is sponsored by Friends of the Montpelier Public Library. Proceeds from the event will help provide materials, programs, and facilities for the Montpelier Public Library.
INFORMATION PROVIDED