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Benjamin Rush Autograph Letter Signed ...
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Description
Dr. Benjamin Rush offers his sympathies and encouragement when a patient does not respond to his treatments
Benjamin Rush Autograph Letter Signed "Benj. Rush".
One page, 6" x 7.5", Philadelphia, February 3, 1807, written to Mr.
Enoch Walker of Moore Hill. Dr. Rush pens: "I am sorry to inform
you that your wife is not much better. As yet the Remedies I have
proscribed in her case, have not had time to produce the effects
intended from them. I am far from despairing of her recovery. Her
disease-her sex-and above all the high character you have given of
her talents and worth, all concur to induce in me the utmost
exertions for her relief." Benjamin Rush, a political activist,
patriot, and a signer of the Declaration of Independence, was also
one of the most respected medical doctors and theorists in America.
Though the quality of his medicine was quite primitive by today's
standards (he advocated bleeding for almost any illness), his
system of theory and practice, his specific contributions to
medical science, and his influence as a teacher made him one of the
most sought-after physicians of his time. He became Professor of
medical theory and clinical practice at the University of
Pennsylvania in 1791, and during his lengthy career, he educated
over 3,000 medical students. He wrote a descriptive account of the
yellow fever epidemic that struck Philadelphia in 1793, during
which he treated up to 100 patients per day, further enhancing his
reputation. Rush was also far ahead of his time in the treatment of
mental illness and is considered by some to be the "father of
American Psychiatry". He published the first textbook on the
subject in the United States, Medical Inquiries and Observations
upon the Diseases of the Mind, in 1812; the emblem of the
American Psychiatric Association also bears his portrait. In fine
condition with conjoined address panel written in his hand.Auction Info
2008 June Grand Format Books & Manuscripts Auction #683 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
June, 2008
4th-5th
Wednesday-Thursday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 4
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
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