Electrocardiograph

This is an electrocardiograph machine from the 1950s. Electrocardiographs measure heart rate over time, making them extremely valuable for performing medicine. This machine uses a heated metal piece and heat paper instead of a pencil lead for drawing out the heart rate. This means the only thing that needs changing is the paper, which allows the machine to run longer and more effectively.

This specific machine is easily portable, and was used throughout the Muskoka Lakes area by Dr. Fennel F. Archdekin, a family doctor who practiced in Port Carling.

Microscope

Medical Bag 

Here is Dr. Archdekin’s travelling medical kit. He carried these items on his door-to-door visits as a family doctor from the 1960s until his passing.

Items in the bag include a baumanometer for taking blood pressure, thermometers, reflex hammers and even various medications.

Polio Vaccine

This bottle of Tetanus-Polio vaccine is one of the most important medical inventions of the mid-20th century. This vaccine proved to be extremely effective, and helped eliminate polio Canada-wide by the 1970s. The elimination of diseases, like polio and tetanus, has since raised the average lifespan worldwide.

This vaccine bottle was used by Dr. Archdekin, contributing to his efforts to enhance the health and well-being of those in Port Carling and the surrounding area.