Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop

Discover the early history of medicine in the United States.

This museum is located in a 1772 restored building that is known as the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop. Guest who visit this place will learn about Hugh Mercer, a doctor that fled Scotland after the Battle of Culloden. He served the citizens of Fredericksburg with medicines and treatments of the time. His practice included leeches, lancets, snakeroot, crab claws, and many other unique forms of treatment for a variety of ailments. Dr. Mercer practiced medicine for 15 years in Fredericksburg, Virginia. One of his patients was Mary Washington, George Washington's mother.

Dr. Mercer left his practice to join the Revolutionary army and died from his injuries while he was a Brigadier General at the Battle of Princeton. This is a tiny house, but it has a lot of information and several different exhibits. You will see tour guides dressed up in period costumes, who do a great job interacting with the visitors. They show and teach about herbal preparations and how 75% of the medicines from that time are still used today. The house has four rooms and a large medicinal garden in the back. The Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop is open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm and Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm. Admission rates are $7 for adults, $3 for students (6 - 18), and free for children ages five and under. If you're looking for something to do in Fredericksburg, Virginia, visit the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop.