Historic ledgers from the bygone Hilo Drug Company contain prescriptions for alcohol, cocaine, castor oil, and quinine, as well as for synthetic medicines including aspirin, insulin, and penicillin. With a grant from the Hawaii Council for the Humanities, through support from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Lyman Museum is preserving 13 of these large ledgers from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
A panel of UH-Hilo interns, scholars, and museum staff will share their progress on the care of these fragile ledgers, the digital project, and community access to the information during two presentations.
These presentations will outline the story of the Hilo Drug Company, the development of medical care in Hawaii, and the significance of these unique records.
This program is funded by a grant from the Hawaii Council for the Humanities, through support from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, or conclusions expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of the NEH.
Come learn about Hilo’s health history during these two presentations set for 7-8:30 p.m. today and 3-4:30 p.m. Tuesday. Seating is limited; first come, first seated. Admission is free for this Saigo presentation.
For more information, call the Lyman Museum at 808-935-5021.