Coming Event - Thursday, May 2, 2024
7 pm
Laudanum and Leeches
Imagine living in a world where nobody knows that germs make you sick – not even your doctor. Imagine a time when everybody believed that sickness is caused by miasmas or bad air – even your doctor. Imagine a place where many medicines are designed to stimulate vomiting, diarrhea, or heavy perspiration instead of relieving your suffering. Imagine loving mothers giving their toothing babies heavy doses of opium. Consider being in the care of a doctor who is likely to remove your blood rather than transfuse you with a fresh supply.
That time and place was the early 1800s in Simpson County, Kentucky – and most everywhere else for that matter. A special program, “Laudanum and Leeches,” at the Sandford Duncan Inn in southern Simpson County will talk about medicine in the days when that historic inn first opened its doors around 1820.
About the Program
This program will detail the medical theories, treatments, and medications available to and endured by our ancestors. The diseases, many now conquered by medical advances, that plagued everyone in the 19th century will be described and period approaches to treatment outlined. The program will culminate in a demonstration, hopefully bloodless, of period surgical techniques in a world ignorant of germs and without antibiotics.
Reservations
“Laudanum and Leeches” will be presented at 7 PM on Thursday, May 2 at the Sandford Duncan Inn, one mile south of Exit 2 off I-65. This is the first of a planned series of special programs at the inn this summer. Admission to “Laudanum and Leeches” is free, but seating is limited. Reservations must be made by calling
270-586-3040.