Drake's Plantation Bitters, 1862-1890

01

Artifact Overview

Bitters is an herb-infused alcoholic mixture. Named for its bitter taste, the liquid was originally developed as a medicinal tonic to help soothe stomach complaints or other digestive disorders. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, patent-medicine dealers bottled and sold the elixir. Americans purchased bitters in simple mold-blown bottles or ones shaped like drums, barrels, or cabins.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Bitters bottle

Date Made

1862-1890

Place of Creation

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

00.3.12612

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Glass (Material)

Color

Amber (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 10 in
Width: 3.25 in
Length: 3.25 in
Weight: 1.25 lb

Inscriptions

on bottle: 1860 / PLANTATION / BITTERS
Drake's Plantation Bitters, 1862-1890