A treatise on the eclectic southern practice of medicine

Philadelphia: Thomas, Cowperthwait & Co., 1854. FIRST EDITION. Contemporary calf, spine label, boards a bit worn and corners a bit rubbed; intermittent foxing, overall a very good copy. First edition of the author’s observations and reflections on his practice of medicine, mostly on the Texas frontier. Luckily for the reader, he dispenses with the “history” of medicine (in general) in the preface, so his text is focused on present-day activities. Despite each chapter appearing to be a standard discussion on various anatomical and physiological ailments (such as fevers, inflammation, the brain, the spleen, diseases of the stomach, venereal disease, etc.), his approach is most definitely bent toward his experiences treating patients outside of an urban environment, with a particular “Southern touch.” For example, an extremely important factor in maintaining health would be bathing, and Massie takes great pains to explain the difference between hot and cold water and their effects, when and where to utilize each, and the danger of failing to bathe.

Massie (1816–1879), born in Winchester, Virginia, migrated to Texas before 1850, where he bought a plantation east of Houston. His 1854 Treatise on the Eclectic Southern Practice of Medicine was intended to introduce physicians to medicine on the frontier. In 1861 Massie was mustered into service with the Confederate Army as a lieutenant colonel, though he never saw acttion. Following the war, Dr. Massie continued to practice medicine and manage his business concerns in Galveston and his plantation in Harris County.

Cordasco 50-1224.