Summary
Made: Kasner & Moss "Opticians and Scientific Instrument Makers" 17 Collins St. West, Melbourne, 1875. Hydrometers are used to measure the specific gravity of liquids. They are sometimes used to analyse urine samples but have also been known to be used to measure the alcohol content in home brews. This hydrometer was used in the pharmacy at Kew Mental Hospital. Dr Herbert Bauer suggests that the kit would have been used to test the concentration of urine.
Physical Description
Consists of thermometer, hydrometer and weights. Whole instrument is gold painted. There are 7 brass weights shaped like small, thick coins with holes. The whole apparatus is contained in a polished wooden case with brass hinges and catches. It has an inset, purple velvet covered rack. The lad was padded and lined with rose-coloured silk, but most of the satin has shredded. Box has lighter wood inset on top.
More Information
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Collection Names
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Donation from Office of Psychiatric Services, May 1985
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Manufacturer
Kasner & Moss, Melbourne, Greater Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 1875
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Place & Date Used
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Inscriptions
Text: PHARMACY/KEW.
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Classification
Medicine & health, Mental health - clinical, Laboratory equipment
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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overall dimensions
20 cm (Length), 5 cm (Width), 9.5 cm (Height)
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References
Sike's table of the concentrated strength of spirits. With directions for use of his hydrometer. 1879. Card with exhibit.
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Keywords
Alcohol, Mental Health, Mental Health Institutions, Psychiatric Hospitals, Urine Testing, Making History - Psych Services
