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Moravian Medicine: Ahead of Its Time
May 29th, 2020 |
As society begins to cautiously reemerge from strict social distancing measures, and scientists boldly race to find treatments, the history of the Moravian Apothecary is more relevant than ever. The Moravian Apothecary opened its doors in 1743 when Dr. John Frederick came from Germany. Following the arrival of his brother, Dr. John Matthew Otto, seven years later, the two doctors expanded it from a single room to a sprawling business. In 1752, a stone dwelling with a red title roofed laboratory was erected on what is now known as Main Street to accommodate the fledgling drug store.
Traveling on horseback as far north as Lehighton, and as far east as New Jersey, the brothers became a primary supplier of medicines across the region. Their prestige only grew during the American Revolutionary War. During the war, Dr. Matthew Otto introduced inoculation, at that time a little-known practice, to prevent a smallpox epidemic in Bethlehem. Given that the General Hospital of the Revolutionary Army occupied Bethlehem for periods between 1776 and 1778, his efforts could well have saved the lives of countless recovering soldiers.
Though few doctors in the 18th-century colonies held medical degrees, Moravian Bethlehem became an exception. Bethlehem attracted several licensed doctors like the Otto brothers from Europe, all who relied on conservative though effective treatments. They compounded herbal medicines (powders, pills, ointments, and syrups) out of plants picked from the Apothecary Garden. In addition, they held regular medical conferences and promoted healthy lifestyle changes, such as greater exercise, special diets, and sufficient rest. Their emphasis on preventative care, in addition to their understanding of sanitation, remained far beyond their time.
Between the late 18th-century to the mid-20th century, the Apothecary underwent a series of changes in ownership, all while consistently providing for the community. In 1790, Dr. Eberhard Freytag, a trained physician and pharmacist, purchased the apothecary from the Moravian Congregation. Then, in 1839, he sold it to his apprentice, Simon Rau, who solely worked as a pharmacist. Rau oversaw the building’s renovation into what visitors see today – he tore down parts of the building, while retaining original structures such as the compounding hearth. The Apothecary continued its operations until 1952; later, it was transformed into a museum.
Today, the Apothecary stands just behind the Moravian Book Shop off Main Street and serves as a daily reminder of the resilience of our forefathers. Dr. Matthew Otto rescued the town as well as wounded soldiers from imminent death. Likewise, both Otto brothers traveled long distances to ensure that people received essential care and treatment. As medical professionals today show similar valiancy, hopefully the public continues to celebrate their efforts as well.
Sources
Schwarz, Ralph. Bethlehem on the Lehigh. Bethlehem: Bethlehem Area Foundation, 2005.
“1752 Apothecary Visit” by Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites.
Alex Cross is the summer 2020 exhibitions and research intern at Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites. He is a graduate of Gettysburg College and will pursue a master’s degree in history at Lehigh University in August.
