Hi,

In at least one context, Upper Great Lakes logging camps, there is a
strong correlation between patent medicine and alcohol use (alcohol was
typically banned on these camps to keep workers productive).  Using data
from historical sources, oral histories, and archaeological sites,
Franzen (1995) demonstrates the use of patent medicine as an intoxicant
by northwoods loggers.  Another study (Dunham and Franzen 1999), found
an inverse correlation between the presence/absence of alcohol bottles
and medicine bottles on 4 late nineteenth century camps (the more
alcohol bottles, the less medicine bottles).  While patent medicine may
indicate the treatment of physical ailments, it also reflects the use of
these substances (both alcohol and narcotic) in a manner functionally
equivalent to that of alcohol.

Dunham, S. and J. Franzen
1999  Bottles and Berms:  Test Excavations at Four Pine Era Lumber
Camps in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.  The Michigan Archaeologist 43
(2/3):127-152.

Franzen, J.
1995  Comfort for Man and Beast:  Alcohol and Medicine Use in Northern
Michigan Logging Camps, ca. 1880-1940.  The Wisconsin Archeologist
76(3/4):294-337.

Cheers,

Sean Dunham

Sean B. Dunham, RPA
Archaeologist/Principal Investigator
Commonwealth Cultural Resources Group, Inc.
2530 Spring Arbor Road
Jackson, Michigan 49203-3602

Phone:  517-788-3550
FAX:  517-788-6594
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http://www.ccrginc.com