A "revigator" crock, from the Radium Ore Revigator Company. The cream-colored stoneware crock measures 22.5 cm in diameter at the base, and is marked with the company name and patent date ("7-16-12"). These crocks were sold during the early 20th century as a remedy for "tired" water. The jars contained, either as a part of the walls of the jar or as an accessory to the jar, some low-grade radioactive ore. Radioactive water was thought by some to be a curative for various ailments. The printed instructions indicate that six or more glasses of water from the crock should be consumed daily. This crock has a push-button dispenser and is lined with radium salts. It was originally purchased for $35 by Mr. Ray Sterton as an addition to his pottery collection, and was subsequently donated by John C. Brougher, M.D., in February 1976. It is in good condition, with a chip one one side.
Medical Museum Collection, Box 62
One of two digital photographs (with 77-314_1_2a.jpg) of a "revigator" crock. This image shows the cream-colored lidded crock, set on a gray counter. The product and manufacturer names can be seen, and a ruler has been placed in front for size comparison.
ca. 1912-1930