05/19/2026
AND we just added a new museum
Public Health Museum (Tewksbury, MA) https://www.publichealthmuseum.org/
Mission: To celebrate the history and achievements of public health.
Through original artifacts, memorabilia, and archival materials, the museum explores the history of public health in America and the story of Tewksbury Hospital, one of the first public health hospitals in the country. Started as an almshouse in 1854, the hospital was home for a short time to Anne Sullivan, Helen Keller’s teacher.
Museum exhibits include Infectious Diseases, Patent Medicines, Food Safety and Pasteurization, early Mental Health, Nursing/Education, and early Dentistry. Well preserved WPA art posters and murals frame the museum’s walls. The museum also features an iron lung; a lifesaving machine for those stricken with polio.
DYK? 👀 Many public libraries partner with local museums, zoos, and cultural institutions to offer free or discounted admission passes that patrons can reserve with a library card.