September 11, 2013
HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION OF TOBYHANNA TOWNSHIP
September 11, 2013
Clymer Library, 115 Firehouse Road, Pocono Pines, Pa.
Speakers: Dr. Alberta Finch, "Medicine in the 19th Century" and Dr. Don Jones, "Dentistry Through the Ages"
Attendance: 58
Rick Bodenschatz introduced Jeanne Dyer, who conducted the meeting. A moment of silence was offered to remember the victims of 911 followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Wayne Drysdale.
The membership was reminded of our upcoming September 25 bus excursion to the Lehigh Valley and of the annual October dinner meeting on October 9 where Amy Leiser, the executive director of the Monroe County Historical Association will talk about the history of Monroe County. Forms for either of these events are on the table outside the meeting room and on our web site.
Fred Lehrer introduced our two speakers for the meeting.
Dr. Alberta Finch shares a whimsical story during her entertaining and informative presentation.
Dr. Alberta Finch, a pediatrician since 1962, gave a talk on “Medicine in the 19th Century.” Dr. Finch said medicine in the 1800s was delivered by a country doctor, who often lived far from the farms.
At that time 50 percent of children died before the age of 5, 6 percent of women died in childbirth, and the life span was 40 years. Most illnesses were treated with whiskey, which was given by the mother. Doctor’s treatments included laxatives, bleeding, and suction cups.
A Dr. Abbott was the first doctor to begin measuring medicine doses and that became the forefront for Abbott Labs. Realizing the importance of clean water and sewage treatment helped improve health. Microscopes showed the first bacteria, Pasteur brought us pasteurized milk, smallpox vaccine was made in Swiftwater, and eventually anesthetics and antiseptics changed our medical outcomes.
Dr. Don Jones introduces his presentation.
Dr. Don Jones, a dentist and Lake Naomi resident, talked about “Dentistry Throughout the Ages.”
He said that dentistry has been around since 7000 BC, but it wasn’t until the 14th century that it was realized that tooth decay was caused by acid.
In the 12th century dentists were also blacksmiths and barbers. Dentures were often delivered in the mail and could be returned if not comfortable. Of course they would then be sold to someone else!
Pain was always a factor in dental treatments until the introduction of nitrous oxide in 1846. The 20th century brought us novocaine, fluoride, sterilization, and prevention. Our expectations in the 21st century are that a patient should have minimal discomfort, with digital X-rays and little waiting time in the dental office.
Following the question-and-answer period, Fred Lehrer presented the speakers with certificates of appreciation.
The business meeting was then presented by Jeanne Dyer. Guests were encouraged to join HATT. August minutes were accepted, treasurer’s report was suspended and it was announced that our current HATT membership stands at 187, and we are the largest historical society in Monroe County.
Reports of our annual August picnic and the Manhattan Project lecture were presented.
Rick Bodenschatz discussed the continued work on the archives and the need for volunteers. The archival items will be useful for HATT and for all members of the community who are looking into their family history. Anyone interested in helping should contact Rick.
Meeting was adjourned and refreshments were served.
Respectfully submitted:
Jeanne Dyer, HATT Secretary
