There is only one medical instruments case in the Åland Maritime Museum’s collections. It belonged to the legendary Gustaf Erikson – Ålands best-known ship owner. Every master had his own case. Being highest in rank on board also included being responsible for the crew’s medical needs.
The heaviness of that burden is displayed in the story of a serious accident on board the four-masted barque Marlborough Hill, en route from Africa to Australia. Seaman Virtanen slips on the upper top gallant yard. His frozen fingers grips in the air but catches nothing and he crashes onto the deck.
Here you can hear the story of how the master on board recoils at the sight of the badly wounded Virtanen and first mate Paul Lindroos who takes on the role as ship’s surgeon.