Peering through the glass frontage, what stories do these alarming antique surgical instruments tell? Welcome to the Paul S. Russell, MD Museum of Medical History and Innovation. It opened in April 2012. It showcases Massachusetts General Hospital’s commitment to innovation.
This museum marks landmarks in patient care. It also points to what may be coming. It is a museum of past and future. The Russell Museum has three levels to explore. The main gallery is on the first floor. It houses nearly 2,000 square feet of exhibits. The exhibits are organized around various medical themes.
The Putnam Gallery is on the second floor. It features rotating exhibits. There is also a portrait gallery. Lectures and presentations happen here. Receptions and other special events can be held here. Ascend to the rooftop garden. James A. Heroux of Brown Sardina designed it. More than 30 kinds of trees grow here. Shrubs, grasses, vines, and ground covers fill the space. Sweeping views of Beacon Hill are visible. The State House dome is also visible. The rooftop garden is open year-round.
Perhaps best of all is the copper cladding. The copper sheets were cut and fitted by workers. At first, it gleams. It will slowly attain a green patina. It will be in dialogue with rooftops on Beacon Hill.
The Russell Museum explores the evolution of healthcare. You can also learn about laboratory and clinical research. Patient and family support are showcased. The museum is fully accessible for people in wheelchairs. The museum includes 12 videos. Interactive media components enhance your visit. All are captioned.
The Russell Museum is designed to be self-guided. Docents are often on hand to welcome visitors. They can answer questions. Leaders of groups of ten or more should schedule their visit in advance.
Don’t forget the Ether Dome. It is the site of the first successful public surgery using ether. It is not housed within the Russell Museum. It is down the street in the Bulfinch Building. The Dome is often used for meetings. Call the museum to find out when the Dome is free.
In 1811 Boston had doctors who made house calls. However, it had no hospital. Doctors James Jackson and John Collins Warren persuaded citizens to fund a hospital. It was especially for the care of the poor.
Today’s donors celebrated MGH’s bicentennial. They raised money for the Russell Museum. The Russell Museum stands at the front of the hospital campus. Its clever glass frontage coaxes one inside. The building’s chief designer was Jane Weinzapfel.
The Russell Museum is a short walk from the Charles/MGH Station on the MBTA Red Line. Admission is free. The Paul S. Russell, MD Museum of Medical History and Innovation is waiting for you.