1850's J. H. Gemrig Surgical Set

J. H. Gemrig was a surgical instrument maker in Philadelphia, Pa. during 1840 to 1881 in various forms (alone, with his brother, and with his son).  During the Civil War, Gemrig was a major supplier of surgical sets under contract to the Union forces.  His company was located at 48 N. 6th from 1841 to 1844, at S. 8th in 1845, 43 S, 8th from 1846 to 1865.   All dates are from the Directory of Makers and Dealers as listed by Edmonson in American Surgical Instruments: an Illustrated History:

Jacob H. Gemrig surgical instrument maker 1841-44: 48 N. 6th

1845: 49 S. 8th

1846-65: 43 S. 8th

1866-80: 109 S. 8th

This particular set, which dates to the 1850's

The non-slotted blade of the capital saw is indicative of a later design found during the late 1850's. 

The removable wood tray fits over the saws in the lower part of the case.  A feature is the presence of two lateral swivel latches in addition to the center key lock.  The key lock is typical of commercial sets of the period.  

Only the small tourniquet is missing.  All parts original.

• See an 1866 Gemrig catalog with diagrams of instruments.

• See a comparison between this set and an early and later Gemrig set.

 

Single lift-out tray

 

Lifting-back metacarpal finger saw