Notes
This calcined magnesia bottle comes from a larger set in the Henry family medicine chest (01.31.1).
Calcined means to oxidize through exposure to high heat. Magnesia is magnesium hydroxide. It is a chemical compound of the formula Mg(OH)2.
Calcined magnesia was historically used as a laxative and antacid, and to treat sour stomach. It acts as an osmotic, in that it draws moisture towards the intestines to soften the stool and make it easier to pass. It is still used similarly today, though typically in a pill form, and is called milk of magnesia.
The bottle has a lid (01.31.7b).
This chest and its contents belonged originally to John (1796–1868) and Elvira McClelland Henry (1808–1875) during their years at Red Hill. The chest was passed down in the family to John and Elvira's daughter, Margaret Ann Henry Miller (1827–1881), and then to her daughter, Elvira Henry Miller (1850–1955). It was then given to Rose Miller Gammon Garrett (1946–) through her father, William Miller Gammon Sr. (1900–1970). William Gammon Sr. was a nephew to Elvira Miller. His daughter, Rose Garrett, is a third great-great-granddaughter of Patrick Henry.
On September 4, 2001, Rose Gammon Garrett donated the medicine chest (01.31.1) and its contents (01.31.2-25) to the Patrick Henry Memorial Foundation.