1893 antique DR O F THOMPSON fitchburg ma LETTERHEAD boston NEW ENGLAND DRUGGIST
SCROLL DOWN  for MORE PHOTOS in DESCRIPTION
Click HERE to view or search ANTIQUE.COTTAGE listings.

AI-assisted research note: This description was prepared with the help of AI tools using the information visible in the document. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy, errors are possible; collectors and researchers should review the original images carefully and draw their own conclusions.

Interesting piece of late-19th century pharmacy and medical correspondence. This handwritten letter measures approximately 5.75 x 8.75 inches and is dated March 7, 1893, written in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, on printed letterhead reading “Office of Dr. Duquet, 152 Water Street.” The letter is written and signed by Dr. O. F. Thompson.

The letter is addressed to the Editor, Students’ Department, The New England Druggist, Boston, Massachusetts, a well-known regional pharmaceutical journal serving pharmacists and druggists throughout New England during the late 19th century.

In the opening portion of the letter, Dr. O. F. Thompson asks whether it would be possible to receive samples of the “new pharmacopoeial substances” so he could participate in a February identification competition run through the journal’s Students’ Department. He explains that he has only just received his forms and humorously asks “Who is to blame?” for the delay.

The second page contains a longer commentary intended for publication in the journal. In it, Dr. O. F. Thompson offers his opinion regarding a proposed bill for the registration of retail druggists, discussing whether pharmacists should be required to register and whether pharmacy should be regarded as a professional calling rather than merely a trade. The letter references respected pharmacists such as Dr. Charles Rice, a prominent authority on pharmacopoeia and pharmacy standards in the United States.

Letters connected with pharmaceutical journals such as The New England Druggist provide an interesting glimpse into the development of pharmacy education, licensing debates, and professional standards in the 1890s.

Authentic period piece related to family, history or local heritage - well-suited for historical collections, genealogical /genealogy research, or museum acquisition.  Vintage or Antique.

CONDITION:  There is tape top center edge, and other wear as shown. See listing description and photos.











- International buyers are responsible to pay VAT or other Taxes to their countries as required.

- eBAY collects and remits sales tax on behalf of several states.   If you are a dealer, you can write to eBay to file a form to become tax exempt. 
LOC: 
LOC2:  PAPERBOX35-MULTI(11)-TMKTK-F260305BTA25G