American Surgical Instruments by James M. Edmonson (1997, Hardcover)

This is 'the' best reference for collectors of American medical and surgical instruments made during the 1800's. The photos are excellent, as well as the extensive research and details used to track and illustrate the history of the surgical instrument trade.

This book is extremely helpful for researching Civil War surgical sets and determining the date it was created. Without this information, it is very difficult, if not impossible to accurately date various instruments found in wood cased sets.

Dr. Michael Echols
American Civil War Surgical Antiques