Crawford W. Long Museum, Medical and biographical museum in Jefferson, United States
The Crawford W. Long Museum is a medical and biographical museum in Jefferson dedicated to documenting a pioneering physician's career and achievements. The collection features surgical instruments, medical tools, and personal belongings that illustrate his life and professional practice.
A physician from this region performed the first surgery using ether for anesthesia in 1842, changing medical practice forever. This breakthrough moment transformed how surgeons approached pain management and patient care.
The museum includes a preserved 1800s general store section that shows how goods and everyday items were bought and used in rural Georgia communities. Visitors can observe what products mattered to local residents and how shopping was done in that era.
Plan your visit during the week when the museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, and consider booking ahead if you want a guided tour. Check current hours and any seasonal closures before making the trip.
The museum displays how ether was originally administered during surgery: patients inhaled vapors from a cloth while surgeons performed procedures. This simple yet effective technique was revolutionary for its time and is documented through original instruments and period records.
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