Ask a Librarian

Hanger Artificial Legs and Arms

Posted on by

By Sandra Yates
Archivist and Special Collections Librarian
We all know how amazing old magazine advertisements are. I found this gem in a June 1938 issue of the Texas State Journal of Medicine. Looks to me that the Hanger artificial limbs are easier to wear than wrapping a robe around a négligée! What do you think?
The advertisement reads, “…This is an actual photograph of a lady wearing the HANGER HIP CONTROL LIMB for thigh amputation, worn without suspenders. Over six thousand successful wearers of the Hip Control (copyrighted) limb…”

Advertisement for the Hanger Artificial Legs and Arms picturing a woman wearing prosthetic in négligée. Ad reads, "Hanger Artificial Legs and Arms. Established 1861. Largest and Oldest Artificial Limb Company in the World. We solicit an opportunity to consult with the surgeon and the amputee with reference to the preparation of the stump after amputation with the SHRINKER PROTECTOR. Our booklet, "The Care and Treatment of the Amputated Limb," will be gladly sent on request. AMPUTATIONS from the Standpoint of SUCCESSFUL PROSTHESIS. If you have not recieved your copy of the above treatise, please notify us and one will be sent immediately. This is an actual photograph of a lady wearing the HANGER HIP CONTROL LIMB for thigh amputation, worn without suspenders. Over six thousand successful wearers of the Hip Control (copyrighted) limb. Limbs for ALL types of amputations built, fitted and finished at the Dallas factory by skilled Hanger-trained mechanics. J. E. Hanger, Inc. of Texas. 1706 Commerce Street - Dallas. 4810 South Main St. - Houston."
Texas State Journal of Medicine, June 1938, vol. 34, no. 2
E.W. Bertner Papers, MS002 (III-1-3)

The Texas Medical Center Library.
1133 John Freeman Blvd, Houston, TX 77030