Object Record
| Object Name | Fleam |
| Catalog Number | 2004.27.29 |
| Maker | Wortenholm |
| Date | ca. 1825 |
| Material(s) | steel; brass; |
| Dimensions | H-3.25 W-1 D-0.5 inches |
| Description | This fleam has three steel blades encased in a holder of the same shape. The blades are of varying sizes and are attached to the brass case by a pin at one end which allows the blades to swing out from the case. The blades have a straight handle with a sharp rounded blade approximately 1/4" from the free swinging end. |
| Notes |
This type of surgical lancet, also known as a fleam, is one of the easiest-to-find bloodletting antiques. These devices have one or more blades at right angles to the handle. The most common form is a brass case containing 2 or 3 steel blades, often stamped with a makers name. The blades were often of various sizes to offer a selection to the phlebotomist. Many of these fleams were likely used on animals but the ones with small blades no doubt were used on humans at times as well. Bloodletting was practiced as a form of medicine from the time of ancient Greece through the late 19th or early 20th century. William Calk(1740-1823), from Prince William County, Virginia, came to Kentucky in 1775. Calk lived initially at Boonesborough, where he often hunted with Daniel Boone according to family tradition. Later he moved his wife Sarah and their family to a farm on Hinckston Creek near Mt. Sterling. The family maintained a collection of Calk's pioneer material through the years. This piece is believed to have been originally used by Calk, however other family members used it over the years and replaced bottles and medical tools contained within. |
| Collection | Calk Family Collection |
| People |
Wortenholm Calk, William |
| Subjects |
Medical care Medicine Medicines Health Health & welfare Health care Medical equipment & supplies Blood Blood letting |
| Search Terms |
Fort Boonesborough Mt. Sterling (Ky.) Virginia |
| Physical Holder | Kentucky Historical Society - KHS |