Rough on Rats

Rough on Rats

Updated on August 15, 2023

Dr. Scott Cooper

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Dr. Cooper is an Adjunct Professor of History, and his research interests include social media's history on society and technology.

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Obituaries Were Once More Descriptive

The level of personal privacy and what today is considered morbid was absent in the late 1800s or early 1900s. When someone died, it was not uncommon for the newspapers to print the manner of death for the interested reader. The more spectacular the end, the more interest was garnered by the newspaper. A quick scan of newspaper obituaries from this era shows all manner of death. For example, the paper may list “John Smith, who jumped from a building” or “John Smith, who died jumping in front of a train.” In increasingly more cases from the 1890s, the obituary might read “John Smith, Rough on Rats” without explanation. Other than making an exciting punk rock band name, “Rough on Rats” does have a meaning that the reader would have understood during this time.

Tuesday May 14 1889 Suicide Obituary

• 14 May 1889 - SUICIDE BY TAKING "ROUGH ON RATS." - Trove
  An enquiry into the cause of the death of Duncan McCulloch, who died at the Adelaide Hospital on Sunday from taking " Rough on Rate," was held by Mr. Coroner Whittell at ...

Ephraim Wells

Explaining “Rough on Rats” as a manner of death began in the early 1870s. Selling his medicines and poisons retail from a storefront, Ephraim Wells barely broke even and considered bankruptcy. The storefront was not full of customers, and it was full of rats! Using chemicals, including arsenic, in his shop, he concocted a mixture to kill the rats overrunning his shop. 18972 In 1872, his wife observed the gruesome death rats experienced while working in the shop. Exclaiming to him in a joke that his new poison was rough on rats, Wells found the name for his new product, “Rough on Rats! Cleverly patenting the title, he closed the retail shop and started advertising his new product to be sold through the mail.

Dyspepsia

Source

Mother Swan’s Worm Syrup

Wells set out to create advertising for his new product and initially featured pictures of wide-eyed cats looking at the product with the caption, Our Occupation Gone! Within a year, Wells marketed “Rough on Rats” through imaginative advertising worldwide. “Rough on Rats” became so popular that Wells tried to capitalize on other products using the same catchy name. “Rough on Corns” and “Rough on Toothache” were two products Wells manufactured in Jersey City, New Jersey, along with “Skinny Men Health Renewer” and “Mother Swan’s Worm Syrup.” Although successful, Wells’ other products failed to rise to the success of “Rough on Rats.”

Worldwide Popularity

By the early 1900s, “Rough on Rats” was sold worldwide, with Wells spending over $70,000 a year on advertising. He expanded into the music publishing business and created a simple song for “Rough on Rats.” Jack London mentions “Rough on Rats” in “That Spot” and The Mutiny of the Elsinore. Wells expanded his advertising to state that “Rough on Rats” would kill any pest in the house, including bed bugs, roaches, and flies. Cheap and readily available, “Rough on Rats” was found on the shelves of even the poorest consumers.

Catchy Jingle

R-r-rats! Rats! Rats!

“Rough on Rats,”

Hang your dogs and drown your cats;

We give a plan for every man,

To clear his house with “Rough on Rats.”

Suicide by Rat Poison

“Rough on Rats” became a worldwide best-selling product. Unfortunately, unrest followed the success. The popularity of “Rough on Rats” created one drawback anywhere it was sold: besides the death of millions of rats around the world. By the early 1900s, “Rough on Rats” increasingly became the preferred method for suicides in the lower classes. Suicide deaths rose during the early 20th century, with poising the leading cause. Although no statistical data has been compiled, “Rough on Rats” was mentioned frequently in every newspaper across the globe during the early 20th century as a manner of death. In addition, “Rough on Rats” contributed to numerous accidental deaths. “Rough on Rats” increasingly became a means of murder worldwide. American slang in the early 1900s included “Rough on Rats” to mean someone in a challenging situation or down on his luck. After the death of Wells in 1913, “Rough on Rats” remained available until the 1950s.

From Rats to Syphilis

The popularity of arsenic rose through the late 1900s and eventually found its way into contaminating numerous food sources. Seafood, especially bivalves, were most susceptible to arsenic runoff. Farmers used arsenic in large quantities to rid crops of unwanted pests. Lumber companies used arsenic as a wood preservative in outdoor structures. During World War II, an arsenic derivative, Arsphenamine, was used to cure syphilis successfully. Arsenic production was eventually discontinued in the United States and is no longer used in domestic products, although it is still used in some industrial manufacturing processes.

“Rough on Rats” may no longer be on your local hardware store shelf or be part of American slang, but the lasting impact of “Rough on Rats” has increased over the previous decade with genealogists discovering the manner of death of distant relatives.

Salvarsan

• Early Solution | Science History Institute
  In the 19th century arsenic was often the poison of choice for murderers. In the early 20th century its image was redeemed when an arsenic derivative became the salvation of those suffering from syphilis.

Buttons of the American Revolutionary War

The Continental Army and numerous state militias used several noteworthy buttons during the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783). Most buttons from this era were made of numerous materials, made of brass, wood, or pewter. These buttons typically featured distinctive designs or symbols representing the revolutionary cause. Here are some of the notable buttons from the Revolutionary War era:

Massachusetts "Pine Tree" Button: These buttons were used by the Massachusetts Bay Colony troops and featured a pine tree design. The Pine Tree was an important symbol of resistance against British authority.

Continental Army "Great Seal" Button: Some buttons displayed the Great Seal of the United States, which features an eagle with a shield, holding an olive branch and arrows. The Continental Army used these buttons to symbolize their loyalty to the emerging nation.

Virginia State Seal Button: The Virginia state troops used buttons with the Virginia state seal, which includes the Roman goddess Virtus (representing virtue) standing over a defeated British figure.

New York "Excelsior" Button: New York troops used buttons with the word "Excelsior," which means "ever upward" in Latin. This motto represented the determination to achieve higher goals.

South Carolina "Liberty" Button: South Carolina buttons often featured the word "Liberty" and a palmetto tree or other revolutionary symbols.

Connecticut "Hartford Convention" Button: Some Connecticut regiments used buttons with a design referencing the Hartford Convention, a meeting of New England states during the War of 1812. The convention discussed their grievances and sought to limit the federal government's power.

Maryland "Sword in Hand" Button: Maryland troops used buttons featuring the state coat of arms, which included a figure holding a sword in hand, representing the readiness to defend their rights.

Buttons of the Revolutionary War are collector items and museum pieces. 

Computer Mouse

If you own a computer, you know the mouse is essential in inputting information and controlling the cursor. Douglas Engelbart and his Stanford Research Institute (SRI) team invented the computer mouse in the early 1960s.

Here's a brief history of the computer mouse:

1. Invention of the Mouse (1960s): Douglas Engelbart, a computer scientist, and his team developed the first prototype of the computer mouse in the mid-1960s. The device was a wooden shell with two perpendicular wheels that could roll on a surface and translate the movement into cursor movement on a screen.

2. Public Debut (1968): The computer mouse gained public attention during "The Mother of All Demos" in 1968, where Douglas Engelbart showcased a range of groundbreaking technologies, including the mouse, at a computer conference in San Francisco. The demonstration introduced the concept of using a mouse to interact with a graphical user interface (GUI).

3. Early Commercialization (1970s): Various computer companies began experimenting with the mouse following the demonstration. In 1970, Xerox PARC (Palo Alto Research Center) developed a more practical mouse design using a rubber ball instead of wheels, allowing smoother movement. This design became a standard for many subsequent mouse models.

4. Mouse Becomes Mainstream (1980s): The 1980s marked the era when personal computers started gaining popularity, and the mouse became a mainstream input device. Apple's Lisa computer, released in 1983, was one of the first commercially successful computers to incorporate a mouse as a standard input device. The same year, the Apple Macintosh was introduced with a mouse, further popularizing its use.

5. Optical Mouse (1990s): The traditional mechanical mouse with a rubber ball had some limitations, such as the need for regular cleaning. In the 1990s, optical mice were introduced, which used a tiny camera to track movement and eliminated the need for a ball. Optical mice offered more precise tracking and required less maintenance.

6. Wireless and Ergonomic Mice (2000s): The 2000s saw the advent of wireless mice, which relied on infrared or radio frequency technology to transmit signals to the computer, eliminating the need for a physical connection. Additionally, ergonomic designs became more prevalent, focusing on providing greater comfort and reducing wrist strain during extended computer use.

7. Advancements in Sensor Technology: In recent years, mouse technology has advanced significantly. Optical sensors have been replaced with laser sensors, which provide even greater accuracy and work on a wider range of surfaces. High polling rates and adjustable DPI (dots per inch) settings allow users to customize their mouse sensitivity to suit their preferences.

8. Evolving Form Factors: While the traditional mouse shape has remained popular, alternative form factors have emerged. Gaming mice, for example, often feature additional buttons, customizable weights, and RGB lighting. There are also trackballs, touch-sensitive surfaces, and other innovations that provide different methods of cursor control.

The computer mouse has become integral to modern computing, enabling intuitive and precise interaction with graphical user interfaces. Its invention and subsequent evolution have greatly contributed to the development of human-computer interaction.

Chewing Gum

The history of chewing gum dates back thousands of years, with evidence of ancient civilizations chewing various substances for enjoyment and health benefits. Here is a brief overview of the history of chewing gum:

Ancient Times:

- Early evidence of gum-like substances being chewed comes from ancient civilizations. The Greeks chewed mastic gum derived from the resin of the mastic tree, while the Mayans and Aztecs in Central America chewed chicle, a natural gum made from the sap of the sapodilla tree.

19th Century:

- Chewing gum, in its modern form, emerged in the 19th century. In 1848, John B. Curtis, a Maine entrepreneur, started producing and selling spruce gum derived from the resin of spruce trees. Spruce gum became famous as a chewing gum ingredient.

- In the 1860s, Mexican General Antonio López de Santa Anna introduced chicle to the United States as a potential rubber substitute. However, it did not find success as a rubber substitute but gained popularity as a chewing gum ingredient due to its pleasant taste and chewy texture.

- In 1871, Thomas Adams, a photographer, and inventor, was introduced to chicle by Santa Anna and started experimenting with it. He developed the first commercial chewing gum, "Adams New York Chewing Gum." Adams' company would later become one of the most significant gum manufacturers in the United States.

Late 19th to Early 20th Century:

- Chewing gum production expanded rapidly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Various flavors, including spearmint and wintergreen, were introduced to enhance the taste. Companies like Wrigley, Beech-Nut, and Dentyne became well-known names in the gum industry.

- In 1891, William Wrigley Jr., who initially sold baking powder, began offering chewing gum as a free bonus with his baking powder. The gum's popularity grew, and Wrigley shifted his focus to chewing gum production, eventually establishing the Wrigley Company, one of the leading global gum manufacturers.

- As the industry evolved, gum formulations improved. Initially, gum bases were made from natural substances like chicle, but synthetic gum bases were developed in the early 20th century, providing greater consistency and durability.

Mid-20th Century to Present:

- The mid-20th century brought advancements in gum packaging and marketing. The introduction of sugar-free and breath-freshening gums expanded the market further. Chewing gum became associated with oral hygiene and fresh breath.

- Today, various chewing gum flavors, shapes, and brands are available worldwide. Chewing gum is produced using synthetic gum bases, sweeteners, flavors, and other ingredients. Millions of people enjoy it for various reasons, including oral care, stress relief, and breath freshening.

Overall, the history of chewing gum has seen it evolve from natural resins to synthetic formulations, becoming a popular and widely consumed product enjoyed by people of all ages.

The Pocket Watch

The first pocket watches originated in the 16th century. However, they were pretty different from the pocket watches we are familiar with today. The earliest pocket watches were large and bulky, like portable clocks carried in their pockets. They were typically made in the shape of a sphere or cylinder and were powered by weights or springs.

Peter Henlein, a German locksmith and watchmaker, is often credited with inventing the pocket watch around 1504. His early designs were portable timepieces worn on a chain around the neck or carried in a pocket.

These early pocket watches had only an hour hand and didn't have a minute hand or a protective glass cover over the dial. The time was usually set by observing the sun's position or using other reference timepieces.

Over time, pocket watches became more refined and compact. They evolved into minute hands, protective covers or lids, and more intricate designs. The introduction of the balance spring in the 17th century significantly improved their accuracy and made them more practical.

By the 18th and 19th centuries, pocket watches had become highly valued and fashionable. They were often crafted with intricate engravings, made of precious metals, and adorned with gemstones. Pocket watches remained the primary timekeeping devices until the late 19th century, when wristwatches started gaining popularity.

Today, pocket watches are considered more of a vintage or luxury item, often sought after by collectors or individuals who appreciate their historical and aesthetic value. They are less commonly used for everyday timekeeping purposes, with wristwatches and smartphones being more prevalent.

First Battle of WWI

The first battle of World War I is generally considered the Battle of Liège, which took place from August 5 to August 16, 1914. Liège was a strategically important city in Belgium, and its fortifications played a crucial role in the German invasion of Belgium.

During the battle, the heavily fortified city of Liège was defended by Belgian forces against the advancing German army. The Belgian defenders put up a valiant resistance, but they were ultimately overwhelmed by the superior firepower and numbers of the German forces. The Germans utilized heavy artillery, including howitzers and siege guns, to bombard the fortifications and breach the defensive lines.

The fall of Liège marked the initial success of the German Schlieffen Plan, which aimed to defeat France by invading Belgium and swiftly encircling Paris. Although the Belgian forces could not hold off the German advance, their resistance at Liège delayed it, allowing the French and British armies more time to mobilize.

It's worth noting that some other minor engagements and skirmishes occurred before the Battle of Liège, as various nations mobilized their forces and clashed along their borders. However, Liège is often considered the first major battle of World War I.

Soldier's Heart

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can affect individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. While PTSD was not formally recognized as a diagnosis during the American Civil War (1861-1865), it is possible that soldiers who fought in the war experienced symptoms similar to what we now understand as PTSD.

During the Civil War, soldiers were exposed to intense combat, violence, and the horrors of war. They witnessed the deaths of their comrades, faced the constant threat of injury or death, and endured harsh living conditions. These experiences could have a profound impact on their mental well-being.

Soldiers who fought in the Civil War often faced high stress, fear, and uncertainty. They lived in constant danger and had to cope with the physical and emotional toll of combat. The trauma they experienced could manifest in various ways, including nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, hypervigilance, anxiety, depression, and difficulties in social relationships.

While the understanding of mental health conditions was limited during the Civil War era, there are historical accounts of soldiers exhibiting symptoms that align with what we now know as PTSD. Some soldiers experienced what was referred to as a "Soldier's Heart" or "Irritable Heart," which described symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, fatigue, and anxiety.

Treatment for mental health issues during the Civil War was rudimentary compared to modern standards. Soldiers who exhibited distress were often labeled weak or cowardly and were subjected to disciplinary measures. However, some medical professionals recognized the psychological toll of war and attempted to provide support. Rest, relaxation, diversion, and companionship were encouraged to help soldiers recover.

It is important to note that our understanding and recognition of PTSD have evolved significantly since the Civil War. Today, we have a more comprehensive understanding of the condition and recognize the need for specialized treatment and support for those who experience trauma.

James A. Garfield

James A. Garfield, the 20th President of the United States, served from March 4, 1881, until his untimely death on September 19, 1881. Garfield's presidential style was influenced by the political climate and norms of the time and his personal disposition. Here are some critical aspects of James Garfield's presidential style:

1. Oratory Skills: Garfield was renowned for his exceptional oratory skills. He was a captivating speaker and could command the attention of his audience with his eloquence. His speeches were often marked by a thoughtful and intellectual approach, reflecting his background as a scholar and educator.

2. Intellectual and Academic Approach: Garfield had a solid academic background, having served as a college professor and President before entering politics. This intellectual approach influenced his presidential style, as he was known for his deep thinking and analytical mindset. He was well-versed in various subjects and often brought a scholarly perspective to policy matters.

3. Political Pragmatism: Garfield was known for his pragmatic approach to politics. He was skilled at finding common ground and building coalitions, which helped him navigate the complex political landscape of his time. He sought to bridge the gap between various factions within his Republican Party and work towards bipartisan solutions when possible.

4. Commitment to Civil Service Reform: Garfield strongly advocated civil service reform, which aimed to eliminate corruption and patronage in government appointments. He believed in merit-based appointments and pushed for reforms to professionalize the civil service system. This commitment to reform was a defining aspect of his presidential style.

5. Open Accessibility: Garfield maintained an open-door policy at the White House, making himself accessible to the public and listening to their concerns. He welcomed visitors and engaged in direct conversations with citizens, demonstrating his commitment to transparency and accountability.

It's important to note that Garfield's presidency was cut short by his assassination just months into his term. As a result, his impact on the presidency and his specific presidential style may not have fully developed or been fully realized during his tenure.

First Bottled H2O

The first bottled water can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where people collected and stored water in containers made from animal skins, gourds, or other natural materials. However, the concept of commercially packaged and distributed bottled water as we know it today emerged much later.

The first documented instance of bottled water being sold on a large scale dates back to the 17th century in the small town of Jackson's Spa in England. Bottled water from a natural spring was sold for its perceived health benefits and was popular among the wealthy elite who visited the spa.

In the 19th century, the demand for bottled water increased as public concerns grew over the safety and quality of drinking water in cities. Companies began to bottle and sell water from natural springs as a safer alternative. The first commercially successful bottled water brand was Saratoga Springs, established in Saratoga, New York, in 1872.

However, the widespread consumption of bottled water took off in the late 20th century, driven by advancements in plastic technology and growing consumer interest in health and convenience. Bottled water became widely available in various sizes and types, including purified, mineral, and flavored water.

Today, bottled water is a multi-billion dollar industry and is consumed globally. However, it is worth noting that the environmental impact of plastic waste from single-use water bottles has raised concerns, leading to increased efforts in promoting reusable alternatives and improving recycling infrastructure.

History of Canned Food

The history of canned food dates back to the late 18th century. Here's a brief overview of the development and evolution of canned food:

1. Early Preservation Techniques: Prior to the invention of canning, various methods were used to preserve food, such as drying, salting, smoking, and fermenting. While these methods were effective to some extent, they often altered the taste and nutritional value of the food.

2. Nicolas Appert and the Birth of Canning: The process of canning was pioneered by a French chef and confectioner named Nicolas Appert. In 1795, he discovered that by sealing food in airtight glass jars and heating them, he could prevent spoilage and prolong their shelf life. Appert's method, known as appertization, involved boiling food in the jars and sealing them with cork and wax.

3. Peter Durand and the Tin Can: In 1810, a British merchant named Peter Durand received a patent from the British government for the preservation of food in tin-plated iron cans. Durand's invention replaced glass jars with tin cans, which were more durable and less breakable than glass. This marked the birth of the modern-day concept of canning.

4. Early Challenges and Improvements: Initially, the canning process faced several challenges. The early cans were sealed with lead, which caused health concerns. However, in the 1840s, the process of using soldered caps made of tin and lead was replaced with safer materials such as tin and later steel.

5. Commercialization and Expansion: Canned food began to gain popularity in the mid-19th century as the technology improved. Commercial canneries started to emerge, and the availability of canned food increased. The canning industry expanded rapidly, and canned goods were exported worldwide.

6. Role in Military and Exploration: Canned food played a significant role in military campaigns and exploration expeditions during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It provided a reliable source of food for soldiers, sailors, and explorers, allowing for longer journeys and easier logistics.

7. Technological Advancements: Over time, advancements in canning technology made the process more efficient and improved the quality of canned food. The development of vacuum sealing and better canning machinery helped to preserve the taste, texture, and nutritional value of the food.

8. Varieties and Convenience: The range of canned food expanded to include various fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, soups, and more. This allowed for a wide variety of options for consumers and made it more convenient to have access to food regardless of the season or location.

Today, canned food is a staple in many households worldwide. It continues to be a reliable and convenient way to store and consume food, offering long shelf life, nutritional value, and convenience in various situations, including emergencies, outdoor activities, and everyday cooking.