Mild Purging Pills by Dakin Brothers

Maker Dakin Brothers, Wholesale and Export Druggists (Established 1859)

Datec 1880

Object number00006092

NameBottle

MediumPaper, glass, organic powder

DimensionsOverall: 106 x 34 x 26mm, 0.1 kg

ClassificationsTools and equipment

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionBottle of Mild Purging Pills made by Dakin Brothers, Wholesale and Export Druggists. Label on body of the bottle reads 'Mild Purging Pills. (compound rhubarb pills) Dose. - As a digestive, one before dinner; as an aperient, two at bedtime. Dakin Brothers, Wholesale & Export Druggists, [...]&3 Cree [...] Lane, Leadenhall [...] London'. Bottle contains the remains of a red/brown powder.SignificanceThe chest represents the changing role of officers who served in the Merchant Marine during the mid to late 19th century. There was no requirement for a surgeon to be on board, so commissioned officers were responsible for performing minor medical tasks. In the case of the BURRUMBEET, the pharmaceuticals were weighed and administered by the Chief Engineer, the original owner of the chest.