A Treasure Trove of Medical Specimens, Surgical Instruments, and Artifacts from the late 18th century to the present day. Peter Morrell is captivated by the quality and number of exhibits
Sitting in a dominant position overlooking Lincoln’s Inn Field’s is the Royal College of Surgeons of England building. It is home to the Hunterian Museum which is a testament to the fascinating world of science, medicine, and natural history.
Named after pioneering surgeon and anatomist John Hunter, the museum offers an immersive journey through time, showcasing a captivating collection of specimens, artifacts, and medical marvels. With its rich history and diverse exhibits, the Hunterian Museum in London invites visitors to delve into the depths of scientific exploration and unravel the mysteries of the human body and the natural world.
The Hunterian Museum in London traces its roots back to the pioneering work of John Hunter in the 18th century. As a renowned anatomist and surgeon, Hunter amassed an extensive collection of anatomical specimens, medical instruments, and curiosities throughout his career. Upon his death in 1793, he bequeathed his collection to the Royal College of Surgeons of England, forming the foundation of what would later become the Hunterian Museum.
The Hunterian Museum in London offers a vast and diverse array of exhibits that span multiple disciplines. One of its most notable features is the anatomical collection, which showcases an extensive range of human and animal specimens. From intricately preserved skeletons to preserved organs, this section of the museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of the human body and gain a deeper understanding of anatomical science.
After a £4.6 million development the museum reopened in May 2023. There are 10 rooms, each in its own way revealing more about human anatomy and the natural word. The exhibit cases are very well lit, revealing every fascinating detail.
Items on display range from the skulls of elephants, hippos, and even syphilitic humans. One display I found particularly interesting was the preserved human foetuses, and their development during pregnancy. Recent newspaper reports can be put into context by, for example, seeing a 28-32 week baby, it is large, fully formed and viable.
Every conceivable human organ is on display both intact and diseased. I could list many more but it’s something you really must see.
A thread that runs through the entire museum is how surgical treatment and techniques have changed over the last 250 years. Early surgical instruments on display included bone saws for limb removal and rudimentary cataract removal knives. These have now been replaced by vital sign monitors and robotic arms. In parallel the discovery of anaesthetics and infection control methods made treatment more bearable and a lot safer.
The Hunterian Museum in London is a haven for those who have a keen interest in the wonders of science, medicine, and natural history. From its rich historical legacy to its diverse collections and interactive exhibits, the museum offers an extraordinary experience that sparks curiosity, inspires discovery, and illuminates the mysteries of our world.
I can thoroughly recommend the Museum and was enthralled by it. If you have a thirst for knowledge, this will quench it. You will leave feeling both informed and inspired.
Entry to the Hunterian Museum is free but it is imperative that you pre-book a timed slot, there are no walk-ins.
For more information and to book tickets go to
https://hunterianmuseum.org/
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