Mutter Museum, Philadelphia (must see)

The Mütter Museum, situated in the Center City area of Philadelphia, is a renowned institution dedicated to medical history and science. It's an integral part of The College of Physicians of Philadelphia and houses an extensive collection of medical artifacts. The museum's inception dates back to December 11, 1858, when it was founded with a generous contribution from Dr. Thomas Dent Mütter. Initially, its primary purpose was to serve as an educational resource for medical professionals, students and guests of the College Fellows. It wasn't until the mid-1970s that the museum opened its doors to the general public.

The Mütter Museum boasts a staggering collection of over 37,000 specimens, though only about 10% of these are on display. This collection does not include the vast array of literature contained in the Historical Medical Library, also located within the College. The museum's collection features a variety of anatomical and pathological specimens, wax models, and antique medical equipment, providing a unique and comprehensive view of the history of medicine.

The items, artifacts, and specimens in the museum's collection have been sourced from all over the world. Many were acquired by College Fellows during their travels, with the College reimbursing them for these purchases and any related expenses. Additionally, numerous pieces have been donated from the private collections of physicians, further enriching the museum's diversity and scope.

One of the Mütter Museum's most notable holdings is its collection of over 3,000 osteological specimens, which includes several complete skeletons. Among these is the famous skeleton of Harry Raymond Eastlack, a patient who suffered from Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP), making it a particularly fascinating and educational exhibit. The Mütter Museum stands out not only for its unique collections but also for its role in preserving and presenting the history of medicine to a wide audience.