PHOTOGRAPHIC DEPARTMENT.

BELLEVUE HOSPITAL, January 1, 1876.

Hon. Isaac H. Bailey,
President Board of Commissioners of Public Charities and Correction.

SIR.—The work of this Department has been continued on the same general plan that has governed it in former years. The cases illustrated have in some instances been of a more difficult nature, yet with improved appliances, and the experience gained in their general classification in the past, have enabled the department to produce such results as it is believed will add to its general reputation as an important auxiliary in the treatment of disease. When some eight years ago the department was first fully organized, through the efforts of a few of the more active and progressive members of the medical profession, some of their brethern seemed to look upon it with little favor, until, as year after year its workings were better known, their views became changed, until there now seems to be no longer any doubt as to its great importance. Those who at first gave it but little attention, and who seldom called in its aid, are now amongst its most earnest advocates, and are at all times most anxious to avail themselves of its assistance. The importance of the work has become so apparent, that the department is called upon to furnish unmounted prints for insertion in the Record Books of the Hospital, with the histories of important cases; thus forming an illustrated history for reference and guide in the treatment of future cases of like character.

Physicians and surgeon from other institutions, and abroad, invariably visit the operating rooms whenever opportunity is offered, and seem to look on the department as one worthy of emulation, while their expressions of praise and encouragement cannot but be gratifying to all who labored for its interest. Regret is often expressed that so large and valuable a collection, (no doubt by far the largest in the world), is not more accessible for examination and study; the deficiency in this respect will doubtless be more apparent and embarrassing during this centennial year than it has been heretofore, owing to the greatly increased number who will be likely to visit the department. It is, therefore, respectfully suggested that your honorable board take some action for the more convenient arrangement of the collection.

The work of photographing at the morgue, (of which class 60 cases have been finished this year) each year continues to demonstrate the wisdom which suggested and inaugurated this important feature of the department. The general appearance of this class of work would be greatly improved by some provision for protecting the instrument and subject from the wind, which in the exposed position at present used, often occasions motion very materially interfering with the production of first class results. A window in the end of the building, over the water, connected with the dead house, would greatly facilitate this work, enhance its character, and add to its seclusion.

Annexed will be found a summary of the work done, and cost incurred during the year.

O. G. MASON , Photographer.

J. Frey, Superintendent.