Our Past Is Present August 17, 2017

August 17, 2017

            This is “Our Past Is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.

            Today’s story is about Dr. John Brinkley, who was the famed “Goat Gland” doctor.  In the summer of 1920, Dr. Brinkley announced that he thought Milford, Kansas needed a hotel.  Apparently the hospital business of the “goat gland” surgeon had been so successful that a hotel was needed to accommodate his waiting patients.  Dr. Brinkley recognized the urgent need and ordered work be done to create a first class hotel.  With the possible exception of amenities like an elevator, electric lights and running water, it would offer guests every convenience.

  A manager for the hotel in Milford still needed to be found.  It was said that the fame of the goat gland specialist had spread to Europe and patients from London, Sweden and even South Africa were on the waiting list as guests at the hotel.  The surgeon was naturally desirous that Milford residents take care to put on their best, and every weed be cut or pulled before the arrival of his guests. Even if it meant at his expense.

We have more information about Dr. Brinkley in a book at our Museum.  Stop by any day Tuesday through Sunday between the hours of 1 and 4 in the afternoon and learn more about the “Goat Gland” doctor.  This has been “Our Past Is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.