ClicPic Text and photos copyright 2010 Teri Rosvall. Do not use without permission.

This is a wooden box (only) to a circa 1903 quack medical device - the "J.B.L. Cascade" produced by Tyrrell's Hygienic Institute of New York. It once contained "the only appliance specially made for 'flushing the colon' - basically, an early enema bag.

The unintentionally amusing instructions for use as well as the outrageous advertising claims are printed on the inside bottom of the box. An illustration of the cascade device is there too. The hinged pine box has dovetailed corners, a brass hook clasp, and the company's logo, name, product, and patent dates in pyrography on the lid. The box has some minor finish wear but is in overall good condition for being more than 100 years old. Measurements: 10 by 5-3/4 by 3-1/2 inches.