The instructions for using this electroshock device are illustrated on the lid of the case.

This medical treatment tool includes two wires covered with green fabric, at the ends of which are two metal tips to be attached to the patient.

Dr. Charles Numa de Blois (1867-1952) was the first doctor in Canada to use this type of electroshock device.

After completing medical school in 1892 at the Université Laval de Québec, he left to specialize in Paris, New York, and Germany. He was particularly interested in the treatment of nervous and chronic diseases.

In 1894, he married Marie Cordélia Carignan.

As early as January 1896, de Blois purchased two buildings: one to serve as his residence, the other to make it his “sanatorium.” The Établissement hydrothérapique des Trois-Rivières, located at the corner of avenue Laviolette and rue St-Joseph (today, rue Hart), quickly forged a solid reputation. On the agenda: treatments, showers, and electric baths that can treat—among other ailments—anemia, exhaustion, rheumatism, dyspepsia, and neuralgia.

Dr. de Blois quickly became a leader in his field. An advertisement appearing on page 2 of Le Bien public on November 12, 1929, read:

SANATORIUM DE BLOIS

Treatment of nervous and chronic diseases, neurasthenia, rheumatism, dyspepsia, arteriosclerosis, morphine addiction, alcoholism, etc.

Application of the latest scientific methods, including: water cure, electricity, massage, light and mineral water baths, ultraviolet rays, special diets, etc.

Modern comfort, elevator service, solariums. Very moderate prices: room and board from $14.00 per week. Prospectus on request.

Donation from Jeanne Massicotte
Musée Pierre-Boucher Collection
1985 527 I.5-1