Title: Narcotics safe

Identifier: Country Doctor Museum   (https://digital.lib.ecu.edu/14349)

Description: We now know that many drugs, such as heroin and opium, are harmful to humans. This is why it is now illegal to use these kinds of drugs. During the 1800s, however, physicians prescribed these substances even though their addictive properties were recognized. Many doctors had problems with addicted patients who tried to break into medical offices and steal the drugs. This narcotics safe was one means of keeping drugs – and patients – safe. Manufactured in the late 1800s, this safe belonged to Dr. J. B. Outlaw of Zebulon, North Carolina. It is made of iron that has been painted to look like wood and has glass walls. It also has a double combination lock. The combination for the safe has letters and numbers in it, making the safe even harder to break into.