Call Number:

UPT 50 L848

Repository:

University of Pennsylvania: University Archives and Records Center

Extent:

1 item

Language:

English

Date:

1842-1907 (inclusive)

Creator:

Long, Crawford W. (Crawford Williamson)

Form:

Affidavits

Abstract:

Crawford Williamson Long was a member of the Medical Class of 1839, and the first in surgeon in American to use ether as an anesthetic in a surgical operation in 1842. The Crawford Williamson Long Collection contains photographs of documents attesting to his use of ether as an anesthetic.

Crawford Williamson Long was born on November 1, 1815 in Danielsville, GA to a prosperous family. He was a member of the Medical Class of 1839, and was the first in surgeon in American to use ether as an anesthetic in a surgical operation in 1842. Long's rural location and busy practice delayed his reporting of his findings until 1849. In 1846 Henry Jacob Bigelow of Boston reported the use of esther in Massachusetts General Hospital by John C. Warren and William T. G. Morton. This resulted in a dispute between Long and Morton over who's claim was correct. Both petitioned Congress for redress, but the events of the time precluded any action.

Long was also known for his skill and dedication as a physician. Long died on June 16, 1878.

The Crawford Williamson Long Collection contains photographs of documents attesting to his use of esther as an anesthetic. The source of the letters is not indicated.

Additional biographical material on Long can be found in his Alumni Record File. Crawford Williamson Long's papers are at the Library of Congress and the University of Georgia Library in Athens.

This collection consist of a single item.