Worn Over Time

Answer: Magneto Electric Machine. Davis & Kidder’s patent Magneto Electric Machine (c. 1870-1890) produces alternating current electricity. The strength and frequency of the current is controlled by changing the cranking speed. The therapeutic value of the treatment, if any, was likely due to the placebo effect. Learn more ››

Answer: Radio-Active Water Dispenser. The Radium Ore Revigator was a pseudoscientific medical device consisting of a ceramic water crock lined with radioactive materials. Learn more ››

Answer: X-Ray Fluoroscope. The Patterson X-Ray Fluoroscope was probably manufactured in the 1930s. With the beam on, the physician would position themselves on the opposite side of the patient x-ray tube and view the image produced on the fluorescent screen of the fluoroscope. Compared to generating images on x-ray film, the use of a fluoroscope resulted in higher doses to the patient and doctor. Learn more ››

Answer: Body Massager. Made in Germany, the Semerak body massager has 4 rubber hammers attached to steel springs that are made taut and released by the turning of 5 wooden wheels. Learn more ››

Answer: Pseudotherapeutic Device. The highly decorated nickel plated cylinder is marked “Oxydonor No. 2, manufactured by Dr. H. Sanche & Co., Montreal, Canada, VICTORY, Diaduction Rules Life.” The Oxydonor is a pseudotherapeutic device invented at the turn of the 20th century by Sanche, which he claimed could be used to treat cholera, constipation, hay fever, arthritis pain, and 80 other conditions. Learn more ››