Hunterian Museum, London

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Hunterian Museum

Established	1799
Location	London, England
Type	Medical museum

The Hunterian Museum is a medical museum located in London, England. It is part of the Royal College of Surgeons of England and houses one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of anatomical and pathological specimens in the world. The museum is named after the renowned Scottish surgeon John Hunter, whose extensive collection of specimens forms the core of the museum's holdings.

History

The origins of the Hunterian Museum date back to 1799, when the collection of John Hunter was purchased by the British government and entrusted to the care of the Royal College of Surgeons of England. Hunter was a pioneering figure in the field of surgery and anatomy, and his collection included thousands of specimens, ranging from human and animal anatomical preparations to pathological specimens and surgical instruments.

The museum was originally housed in the Royal College of Surgeons' building in Lincoln's Inn Fields, but it was severely damaged during World War II when the building was bombed. Many of the specimens were lost or damaged, but the surviving collection was eventually restored and the museum was reopened in 1963.

Collections

The Hunterian Museum's collections are divided into several main categories:

• Anatomical Specimens: These include human and animal anatomical preparations, showcasing the structure and function of various organs and systems.
• Pathological Specimens: This section contains specimens illustrating a wide range of diseases and medical conditions, providing valuable insights into the history and development of pathology.
• Surgical Instruments: The museum houses an extensive collection of historical surgical instruments, tracing the evolution of surgical techniques and technologies.
• Historical Artifacts: In addition to specimens and instruments, the museum also features a variety of historical artifacts related to the history of medicine and surgery.

Exhibitions and Education

The Hunterian Museum offers a range of exhibitions and educational programs designed to engage and inform visitors about the history and practice of medicine and surgery. These include temporary exhibitions on specific themes, as well as lectures, workshops, and guided tours.

The museum also plays a key role in the training and education of medical professionals, providing resources and opportunities for learning and research.

See also

• John Hunter (surgeon)
• Royal College of Surgeons of England
• Medical museum
• Pathology
• Surgery

External links

• [Official website]