Make the most of your McKesson ideaShare experience by setting a plan to discover what makes New Orleans such a unique, vibrant city. This is the second part of a series on iconic New Orleans landmarks that we consider must-visit locations.
The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum is a hidden gem for pharmacists looking to connect with the rich history of their profession. Established in 1950, this unique museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of pharmacy and medicine in the 19th and early to mid-20th centuries, with a specific focus on New Orleans and Louisiana. Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, the museum is housed in a historic creole townhouse that adds to its allure and charm.
What sets the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum apart is its extensive collection of over 18,400 historical items, dating from the late 18th century to the mid-20th century. Many of these artifacts were thoughtfully curated and donated by Loyola College of Pharmacy, and the collection has continued to grow through contributions from pharmacies, universities, hospitals, and private collectors. As pharmacists, you’ll find these items fascinating, as they provide valuable insights into the evolution of pharmaceuticals and medical practices during this time period.
The museum’s collection includes a wide range of pharmaceutical and medical objects, crafted from glass, ceramic, metal, paper, and leather. From medicine bottles and perfumes to medical instruments and pharmacy cabinetry, you’ll be transported back in time as you explore these artifacts. One of the highlights of the collection is an 1855 Lippincott soda fountain, a true testament to the ingenuity and innovation of the past.
For those with a thirst for knowledge, the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum offers access to approximately 2,000 books and 250 periodicals. Within this collection, you’ll find approximately 300 books published before 1900, a treasure trove of information waiting to be discovered. This resource is invaluable for pharmacists seeking to deepen their understanding of the profession’s history. Additionally, the museum holds pharmacists’ recipe books, oversize prescription files and ledgers, and individual prescriptions dating from 1850-1920, providing a unique glimpse into the medical practices of the time.
Beyond the artifacts and books, the museum also houses a captivating assortment of paper ephemera, artwork, and posters. As pharmacists, you’ll be intrigued by the advertisements for 19th-century patent medicines, as they offer a window into the marketing strategies employed by pharmaceutical companies in the past. The museum’s collection also includes records, yearbooks, ephemera, and photographs from the New Orleans College of Pharmacy (1900-1919) and Loyola University College of Pharmacy (1920-1965), shedding light on the educational history of pharmacy in the region.
The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum is not only a treasure trove of historical artifacts but also a valuable resource for pharmacists seeking to connect with their professional roots. The museum’s files contain information about historic pharmacies in New Orleans and Louisiana, offering insights into the legacy of your profession in the area. Additionally, the collection includes photographs of historic pharmacies from across the United States, providing a broader perspective on the evolution of pharmacy practice.
Located at 514 Chartres Street in New Orleans, the museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. As pharmacists, you have a unique opportunity to immerse yourselves in the rich history of your profession, exploring the captivating artifacts and resources that the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum has to offer. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, knowledge, or simply a deeper connection to your roots, this museum is a must-visit destination for pharmacists in the vibrant city of New Orleans.