Postcard:Reception Hospital, Saranac Lake, N.Y.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, sanitariums and sanatoriums provided care for those suffering from a variety of physical ailments including alcoholism, exhaustion, and long-term illnesses such as tuberculosis- a contagious disease often affecting the lungs and common during this time period. Staff offered holistic and natural treatments; and patients believed fresh air, mineral baths, and plenty of rest led to full recovery. Postcards like the one shown here provide a visual record for these facilities, as most have since been demolished.