Historical information

James L Hatrick & co ltd was founded in 1876 and incorporated in 1897. They were located in Red Lion Street, Clerkenwell Road, London and were producers and suppliers of chemist and surgical instruments. The business went into compulsory liquidation in July, 1934.

Significance

This object holds historic significance as it demonstrates an example of the history of medicine. There is also strong research potential as the owner of this item is unknown.

Physical description

Small wooden cylinder kit containing snake bite lancet, consisting of a small knife under cap. This object is a portable kit used to penetrate the skin and treat snake bites. Metal knife in wooden case with a description of the item and manufacturer on a paper label; containing medical crystals inside.

Inscriptions & markings

STERILEX /
SNAKE-BITE /
LANCET /
SUGGESTED BY /
SIR LAUDER BRUNTON /
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. /
THE SNAKE-BITE MUST BE /
IMMEDIATELY OPENED WITH /
THE LANCET AND THE /
CRYSTALS RUBBED INTO THE /
WOUND AT ONCE. A LITTLE /
WATER OR SALIVA ADDED TO /
THE CRYSTALS RENDERS THEM /
MORE EFFIEACIOUS /
JAMES L. HATRICK /
& CO. LTD. /
70/72 ST. JOHN STREET /
LONDON, E.C. /