Vapo-Cresolene Vaporizer

MediumMetal, likely brass

DimensionsA: Ht: 6 3/8" Diam: 3 3/8" (part that holds lamp) Diam: 2 9/16" (where bowl is placed) B: 1 3/4" Diam: 5/8" (base) Diam: 1" (metal cap) C: metal bowl: 2 13/16" (diam) Depth: 9/16" D: Ht: 1" (flame adjuster and burner)

ClassificationsHousehold, Kitchen, Miscellaneous

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Wilma Ohlsen. In the Farm House Museum Collection, Farm House Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object number76.32.1a-d

Status

On view

Collections

Household objects, Musical instruments and Tools

CultureAmerican

Label TextThis vaporizer (missing its glass chimney) was once commonly used for medicinal purposes with the cresolene solution purported to contain a germ-destroying ingredient that, when inhaled, would treat diseases. The cresolene solution (made from coal tar) was heated in the top bowl by flame creating a vapor throughout the room. According to the advertisements, the lamp was supposed to cure “Whooping Cough, Spasmodic Croup, Nasal Catarrh, Colds, Bronchitis, Coughs, Sore Throat, Broncho [sic] Pneumonia, The Paroxysms of Asthma and Hay Fever, The Bronchial Complications of Scarlet Fever and Measles and as an aid in the treatment of Diphtheria and Certain Inflammatory Throat Diseases.” Though interesting and unique in design, it is one of the many medically worthless turn-of-the-century proprietary antiseptics brought to the market.

MarkingsB: "cresolene" and "vapo" on sides of lamp D: "V.C.C.O." on adjuster/dial.