MHC newest partner in exciting Ancient DNA Centre project

Where did smallpox and its many less famous cousins come from?

Molecular anthropologists Dr. Ana Duggan and Dr. Hendrik Poinar from the Ancient DNA Centre at McMaster University are working on answering this exact question. The Museum of Health Care is delighted to be McMaster University’s latest partner in this exciting new research project. … More MHC newest partner in exciting Ancient DNA Centre project

Nineteenth-Century Gynaecology: A History in Objects

the landscape of gynaecology changed dramatically during the nineteenth century. Along with experimentation, research, and increasing knowledge came innovation in techniques and technologies until, for better or worse, the Victorian gynaecologist had a veritable arsenal of tools at their disposal. Drawing primarily from the Museum of Health Care’s collection, this blog post examines some of the medical instruments that helped change the face of gynaecology in the nineteenth century, many of which are still in use in some variation today. … More Nineteenth-Century Gynaecology: A History in Objects

Prostitution Regulation and Public Health: The Contagious Diseases Acts of Britain

Over the last 4 years, I have dedicated my time to researching and writing about the Contagious Diseases Acts of Britain (CD Acts) (1864-1886). Despite being an important moment in medical, military, and feminist history, the CD Acts have become a relatively forgotten phenomenon. In my conversations with curious friends and family over the years, most have been shocked to learn that the British government once detained women accused of prostitution, forcing them to undergo invasive vaginal examinations to search for signs of venereal disease. … More Prostitution Regulation and Public Health: The Contagious Diseases Acts of Britain

Rockwood Asylum featured in new exhibit at the Museum of Health Care

The Museum of Health Care at Kingston has installed a new temporary exhibit, with Rockwood as the first subject.

Colloquially known as Rockwood, the city’s first psychiatric hospital has had many names over the years. With artifacts, panels, and even supplementary media links, this small exhibit provides a short overview of the hospital’s history from its beginning all the way to closure. … More Rockwood Asylum featured in new exhibit at the Museum of Health Care

Sick City: Unlocking the Secrets of Kingston’s Medical History

The Museum of Health Care’s Sick City Outdoor Guided Walking Tours have returned for the summer!

Walk in the footsteps of some of Kingston’s earliest residents and arrivals as they engage in a quest for health care in the Limestone City. The stories of the establishment of one of Canada’s oldest public hospitals, Kingston General Hospital, and Queen’s School of Medicine are full of success and sacrifice, triumph and tragedy. Join us for a fascinating look into the lives of those that lived, arrived and died here, as we unlock the secrets of Kingston’s medical history. … More Sick City: Unlocking the Secrets of Kingston’s Medical History

Doors Open 2023 at the Museum of Health Care

The theme for this year’s Doors Open is FOOD. Visit the Museum during Doors Open and explore the connection between health and food. Allow our “doctors” to determine your humour through a scavenger hunt quiz, and be prepared to discover and taste which food best cures your ills based on some historical (and questionable theories)! … More Doors Open 2023 at the Museum of Health Care

Volunteer Board and Museum Committee Members Wanted!

We are looking for enthusiastic committee members who will help support museum staff and work diligently to support our mission and vision.
The Museum is currently welcoming statements of interest for the following:

Board of Directors

Finance Committee

Advancement Committee

Human Resources Committee

Note: Meetings are held virtually. In-person attendance is not required. … More Volunteer Board and Museum Committee Members Wanted!