Curator’s introduction – edition 83

Thank you for once again spending some time with The Sphygmograph. Find yourself a comfy spot on the couch/desk chair/train seat because this edition features an exciting set of articles sure to keep everyone entertained.

The Museum’s most recent volunteer Dr John Earwacker shares his passion for radiology with a look at one of the Museum’s most treasured objects – the first known xray machine in Queensland. It arrived and was in use within 6 months of x-ray technology being discovered by Roentgen in Europe. We are thrilled to have such an experienced and knowledgeable radiologist on the Museum team. Welcome John.

Our resident interviewer Gertrude Behan gives an account of Ann Jackson’s recent visit to the Museum to see Dr Ernest Sandford Jackson’s travelling medical chest. Sandford Jackson was Ann’s great grandfather, and she has memories of the case as a girl. Made in the mid-late 1800s, it is a beautiful piece I encourage you all to come and see.

This edition also includes the second instalment of articles from the fabulous Museum of Dentistry (MoD) established by the ADAQ. It’s a rollicking read, looking at the advertising practices of early Queensland dentists. It’s amazing what people used to get away with!

As we meander towards Christmas, I hope these end months find you ready to relax and celebrate the year that was. My heartfelt thanks to everyone in our Museum community for your continued support. Happy holidays!

Charla