Cholera - Pandemics - Early 1800s

"Ginger Brandy"
 Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division
Washington, D.C. 20540 USA
 //hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/cph.3b47948

In the 1800's, Cholera reared its ugly head in the States.  It was believed to arrive in New York harbor in 1832. It presented itself as watery diarrhea and vomiting, and was contracted by drinking contaminated water, milk, or by eating contaminated food. It spread throughout the United States via canals, railroads, and boats.

Cholera was often listed on death certificates as Choleric Fever, Cholera Morbus, or Dysentery.

Another ailment with these symptoms was called Cholera Infantum.  Several infants in the PMMP are listed as having died of it, but this was a different illness.  The term was used because the symptoms were similar to Cholera, but were not contagious.  The illness occurred between April and October, mainly to infants who had been weaned.  When proper refrigeration of food came about, less was seen of the illness.

This ailment was often listed as Cholera Infantus, Water Gripes, Summer Complaint, or Weaning Brash on death certificates.  

Read these two stories in Arizona newspapers:

"It Was Heaven's Will"
Click Here to Read Article and See Reference

"How We Guard Against Cholera"
Click Here to Read Article and See Reference