document
Catalog Number
2021.14.34Description
An "Order Blank for Medicine Compound by Mixer Medicine Co.". In the order form there are many items to order, from syrup to salves, tablets and soap. These were claimed to cure cancer. On this form there is handwritten price changes with a stamp to explain why, "radical increase in price of drugs since the war".History
Charles W. Mixer – Mixer Medicine Co, Hastings, Michigan."Drs. Mixer" is the name under which C. W. Mixer of Hastings. Mich., conducted a mail-order "cancer cure" business. In November, 1909, Mixer was cited by the postal authorities to show why a fraud order should not be issued against him.
The charges brought against Mixer were that he was conducting a scheme for obtaining money through the mails "by means of false and fraudulent pretenses, representations and promises." The scheme, briefly, was outlined as follows: Advertisements were published in newspapers soliciting those persons who believed themselves to be afflicted with cancer, to write to Drs. Mixer for a "cure". Those who answered the advertisements were sent printed letters, circulars, pamphlets and leaflets in which they were urged to send money for the Drs. Mixer's "treatment" for the cure of cancer.
THERE WAS NO "DR." MIXER
"Further evidence of the spuriousness of this business is found in the false pretense that it is conducted by physicians. Inspection of the advertisements, correspondence and printed matter reveals assiduous effort to impress patients with this idea. Not only the name used for the business does this, but in much of the advertising matter Charles W. Mixer is in terms referred to as 'Doctor.' As is admitted, the business is owned and conducted by Charles W. Mixer and his FATHER. Charles W. Mixer, of Hastings, Mich., who did business under the name of Drs. Mixer (although he was not a physician).