Surgeon’s Chest with Medicine and Post-Mortem Dissection Equipment 5: captiondetails

Surgeon’s Chest with Medicine and Post-Mortem Dissection Equipment
Owned by Confederate States Army Surgeon Dr. Joseph Jones

While medical chests were used by many doctors during the [American] Civi War, this chest is unusual because it reflects the interest of its owner, Dr. Joseph Jones, in post-mortem dissection.

Dr. Jones began his surgical career in Georgia, and had a particular interest in teaching and research. During the Civil War, he joined the Lilberty Independent Troops as a private and was promoted to Major under Surgeon General Samuel P. Moore. he was able to continue his research in this capacity throughout the South. From 1868 until his retirement in 1894, he served as professor of Chemistry and Clinical medicine at the University of Louisiana (today known as Tulane University) while practicing medicine in New Orleans.

His interest in research is demonstrated by the instruments found in his kit. The post-mortem tools were used to provide him and others with increased knowledge of the human body.

Gift of Mrs. Joseph Jones