Tweed in Hastings County, Ontario — Central Canada (North America)
The Hungerford Smallpox Epidemic of 1884
Photographed By Kevin Craft, May 25, 2014
1. The Hungerford Smallpox Epidemic of 1884 Marker
Inscription.
The Hungerford Smallpox Epidemic of 1884. . The viral disease of smallpox - widespread in 19th century Ontario - flared up in a severe epidemic in Hungerford Township in 1884. The outbreak claimed at least 45 lives in 202 reported cases and disrupted economic activity and family life for many more. Local efforts by municipal authorities and private physicians were initially unable to halt the disease, and its wider spread throughout the province seemed likely. The newly established Provincial Board of Health and its hired officers swiftly undertook fumigation, enforced isolation and mass vaccination. The disease was contained, proving the value of public health measures applied consistently under coordinated direction. The Hungerford experience demonstrated the importance of quality vaccine, reliable supplies and skilled vaccinators. The Board's actions in 1884 transformed Ontario's approach to disease control when over 400 local boards of health were formed to assist in the delivery of essential medical services. As a result, Ontario earned an international reputation as an aggressive and innovative public health advocate during the mid-1880s.
The viral disease of smallpox - widespread in 19th century Ontario - flared up in a severe epidemic in Hungerford Township in 1884. The outbreak claimed at least 45 lives in 202 reported cases and disrupted economic activity and family life for many more. Local efforts by municipal authorities and private physicians were initially unable to halt the disease, and its wider spread throughout the province seemed likely. The newly established Provincial Board of Health and its hired officers swiftly undertook fumigation, enforced isolation and mass vaccination. The disease was contained, proving the value of public health measures applied consistently under coordinated direction. The Hungerford experience demonstrated the importance of quality vaccine, reliable supplies and skilled vaccinators. The Board's actions in 1884 transformed Ontario's approach to disease control when over 400 local boards of health were formed to assist in the delivery of essential medical services. As a result, Ontario earned an international reputation as an aggressive and innovative public health advocate during the mid-1880s.
Erected by Ontario Heritage Trust, an agency of the Government of Ontario.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Disasters • Science & Medicine. A significant historical year for this entry is 1884.
Location.
Click or scan to see this page online
44° 28.513′ N, 77° 18.64′ W. Marker is in Tweed, Ontario, in Hastings County. Marker is on Victoria Street North, 0.1 kilometers north of River Street (County Route 38), on the right when traveling south. The marker is located on the grounds of the Tweed and area Heritage Center which also houses the Tweed and area Historical Society. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 40 Victoria Street North, Tweed ON K0K 3J0, Canada. Touch for directions.
More about this marker. The reverse side of the marker presents the same information in French.
Photographed By Kevin Craft, May 25, 2014
2. The Hungerford Smallpox Epidemic of 1884 Marker
(along with other sundry items on the property of the Tweed and area Heritage Center, including a train crossing signal and a totem pole)
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on May 27, 2014, by Kevin Craft of Bedford, Quebec. This page has been viewed 480 times since then and 15 times this year. Photos:1, 2. submitted on May 27, 2014, by Kevin Craft of Bedford, Quebec. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
