Science is Fun Fridays!

 

Dr. Rufus B. Weaver and the nervous system of Harriet Cole.

Harriet worked on the custodial staff at Hahnemann Medical College in the 1880's.  At the age of 35, she died of tuberculosis, after having willed her body to Dr. Weaver.

A professor of anatomy, he carefully extracted her entire nervous system.  Nerves were first wrapped in gauze for protection, and then each strand was covered with a white, lead-based paint.

The display served as an educational tool, but he also took it to the Chicago's World Fair in 1893.  He received the blue ribbon for Premium Scientific Award.

In the 1960's, Dr. George Geckeler performed a restoration.

Ms. Cole now resides at the Drexel University College of Medicine.