Release Date

The Missouri State Museum will present the program "Missouri’s Mad Doctor McDowell" as part of its ongoing "Museum After Hours" series.  Sponsored by Missouri State Parks, the program will begin at 7 p.m. on Oct. 5 in the History Hall in the east wing of the State Capitol.

Author Victoria Cosner will tell the story of St. Louis’ Dr. Joseph Nash McDowell.  In the mid-19th century, the surgeon sparked rumors of macabre medical practices, grave robbing and insanity. Those attending the program will learn the truth behind the wild tales of McDowell’s life and practice.  

The Missouri State Museum’s "Museum after Hours" events are held the first Wednesday of each month when the museum galleries remain open from 5-9 p.m.  "Museum after Hours" is for those who have wondered what it would be like to visit the museum at night or whose schedules don’t allow daytime outings.  In addition to the special programs, the events allow a more relaxed opportunity to view all the museum exhibits.  These exhibits include both old favorites and new offerings.  Evening entry to the will be through the carriage entrance on the south side of the building underneath the grand staircase. 

The Missouri State Museum, which is part of the Missouri state park system, is located on the first floor of the Missouri State Capitol.   For more information about the event, call the museum at 573-751-2854. Missouri State Parks is supported by the one-tenth of one-percent Parks, Soils and Water Sales Tax, which accounts for approximately 75 percent of the budget to repair, improve and maintain state parks and historic sites. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri State Parks.

For more information about Missouri state parks and historic sites, visit http://mostateparks.com.

Contact Information