ILLUSTRATION'S 
AN1> A 
BRIEF DESCRIPTION 
OF 
PATENT UNION 
Artificial Limbs. 
WITH TEBTIMOMaL* OF 
Surgeons, the Press, and those 
Wearing them 
AFTER HAVING TESTED MObT ALL OTHER KINDS. 
MANUFACTURED AT 
PHILADELPHIA, Pa., 
CINCINNATI, Ohio. 
and DETROIT, Mich. 
PATENTED BY JAMES A. FOSTER, 
August 8, 1865. 
June 29,1869. 
All communications should be addressed to 
JAMES A. FOSTER. 
911 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 
60 West Fourth St., Cincinnati, Ohio, 
Or, 172 Jefferson Avenue, Detroit, Mich, 
KTOTI CJE. 
Any one seeing this notice, who has a relative, friend or acquaintance 
that has lost a limb, will confer a favor by sending me their address. 
August, 1870. 
JAMES A. FOSTER. CONTENTS. 
Special Instructions, 1 
How to order a Limb, 1 
Is it necessary to visit the Manufactory to have a leg fitted, 2 
How to prepare a stump for an artificial limb 2 
To the Ladies 2 
Repairing and altering artificial limbs made by other manufacturers 3 
Terms of payment for artificial limbs 3 
How to get the best artificial limb without money 4 
Preface 5 
Description of my Patent Union Leg 7 
Why my attention was called to artificial limbs 13 
My choice in a limb 14 
My commencement 15 
To those suffering from loss of limbs 16 
Is it best to have an artificial limb 17 
Why some get artificial limbs and do not wear them 19 
Fitting artificial limbs by measure 19 
What class of men ought to manufacture artificial limbs 21 
Where to amputate 23 
Certificate from a man whose stump is less than two inches long 27 
Testimony of those having tested the Palmer patent leg 30 
A Bly leg altered after testing my Patent leg 34 
Testimony of those having first tested the Bly patent leg 34 
Testimony of those having first tested the Salem patent leg 39 
Double amputation on gentlemen 39 
Testimony of one that has tested both a Palmer and a Bly patent leg 45 
Testimony of one that has tested the Selpho leg 45 
The contrast in each day’s mails 46 
Testimony of those having tested the Marks leg 46, 52 & 57 
Testimony of one having tested the Condell leg 47 
Testimony of one that has tested three different legs 47 
Testimony of those having tested the Jewett leg 48 
Certificates and correspondence from Ladies 50 
Testimony of a lady having tested a Mark’s leg 52 
Double amputation on ladies 52 
Testimony of one that has tested both a Marks and a Bly leg 57 
Certificates from Surgeons 57 
Testimonials of the Press 60 
Illustrations of the internal arrangement of the Patent Union Leg 64 
Explanations to illustrations 66 
Artificial Arms 69 SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS. 
If the following instructions are properly observed, it will save 
asking many questions and me much time in writing answers, con- 
sequently I place them in the most conspicuous place: 
* HOW TO ORDER A LIMB. 
Whenever a patient wishes a limb, he should write, stating the 
case minutelyi where amputated, whether the joints are flexible or 
not, in fact every particular. A blank, with illustrations and 
directions, will be sent for measurement, which is to be filled up 
and returned to the office he wishes to have the limb made at, 
were it will be placed on file to await its turn. 
The blank measure and instructions are so plain that any one 
who can read figures on a rule can fill it up correctly; all the tools 
necessary are a rule, a tape line and a pair of callipers. Most 
every one has a rule or something that has inches marked on it, 
and if inconvenient to get a tape line, a string can be used and get 
the number of inches on a rule. If there are no callipers to be 
had, the diameters may be dispensed with, but it is desirable to 
have all the measures as full and complete as possible, especially 
the height from floor to top of knee when sitting, [see No. 2(3 on 
the blank measure,] and the lateral diameter of the knee in a 
sitting position in cases of thigh amputations [see No. 9 on blank 
measure]. This can be taken with a rule by taking a little 
precaution, although calliperB would be more preferable; then if 
there were a mistake, I could most always detect it before com- 
mencing, but if not discovered until the limb is ready to fit, we will 
make the necessary alterations free of charge, so that no one need 
fear to send the measure fearing the limb will be made wrong at 
their expense. The limb will be commenced in its turn,and at the 
proper time the patient will be notified to come and have it fitted, 
which, to be properly done, will require the patient’s presence 
from one to three days, according to the condition of the stump. 
When a leg is to be fitted, bear iu mind to bring a shoe or 
boot, such as you wish to wear [the lighter the better], so that 
the fyot may be made to correspond with the natural one. 2 
IS IT NECESSARY TO VISIT THE MANUFACTORY TO HAVE 
A LEG FITTED ? 
I am often asked if it is necessary to visit the manufactory to 
have a leg properly fitted. In reply to such inquiries I would 
say that from my experience in wearing an artificial leg, and 
being constantly engaged, practically in making, fitting, repair- 
ing and altering over all kinds and descriptions of artificial 
limbs made by the different manufacturers, and having been 
almost invariably associated with those that have had them 
fitted at the manufactory, and by measure since the fall of 1862, 
I must say that my observations and experience convince me 
that it is very essential, notwithstanding some manufacturers 
write and advertise to to the contrary (see fitting -artificial 
limbs by measure on page 19th). 
But I would here state that I have the same facilities for 
taking accurate measures, and that my workmen are hired from 
the oldest and heretofore the best manufactories, and if any one 
wishes to try the experiment, after reading what I have said 
on the subject, I will do my best to make the limb easy and 
comfortable, and have no hesitation in saying that if any one 
oan do it, I can. 
HOW TO PREPARE THE STUMP FOR AN ARTIFICIAL LIMB 
This is a subject that patients and, as a general thing, surgeons 
do not fully understand. Most of them think that when a limb is 
amputated and the stump healed, that is all that is to be done 
until an artificial limb is obtained. But such is not the case, 
however, for the fleshy part of a stump should be reduced in size 
as much as possible, and as free and perfect action of the stump as 
is possible should be obtained. A joint should never be allowed to 
become flexed or semi-flexed if it can be avoided. As soon as the 
stump is healed, a non-elastic sock made to fit tightly should be 
worn, or it should be bandaged in order to solidify and bring it to 
its proper form. It should also be moved as much as possible to 
keep the joints working freely until a limb is applied. 
In cases where a stump is conical, it is sometimes difficult to 
keep a sock or bandage on it. In such cases an apparatus made 
to lace up like a corset ean be made effectual. A stump should 
not be compressed hard enough to stop a free circulation or so as 
to cause any uncomfortable sensation, as a continual gradual com- 
pression will reduoe it fast enough. 
It sometimes occurs that ladies and young folks, unaccustomed 
to large cities, wish to go and get a limb, or have an old one alter- 
ed or repaired, and are afraid to come alone, and often bring some 
one more accustomed to traveling with them, thus causing ah un- 
TO THE LADIES. 3 
necessary expense. To such I would say that this is entirely un- 
necessary, for if any such persons will write and state what time 
they will be in the city, and whioh railroad or boat they will arrive 
on, I or one of my workmen will meet them (if they requesf it) at 
the depot or steamboat landing. But if from any cause we should 
miss each other (which is not likely to happen) any one can tell 
where to find us, and there are always hacks and omnibusses wait- 
ing the arrival of every train at the depot ready to convey passen- 
gers to any part of the city, at a cost of only about fifty cents. 
The only precaution necessary is to remember the name and num- 
ber of the street you wish to go to, and there is no danger of the 
least trouble whatever. 
All such persons will receive courteous and kind attention, and 
also every assistance desired in obtaining such boarding places as 
they wish while stopping in the city. 
REPAIRING AND ALTERING OVER ARTIFICIAL LIMBS MADE 
BY OTHER MANUFACTURERS. 
Thope having artificial legs made by the hertofore best [or 
any other] manufacturers, and have been continually troubled 
with broken heel, side and front cords, or feet, ankles, springs, 
or with loose, rattling ankie joints, (and the rest of the leg good) 
can have it cut off just above the ankle joint, and my patent un- 
ion ankle joint and foot applied and warranted at about half the 
cost of a new leg. [See certificate of Mark Flanigan, page 24.] 
Those that have artificial limbs that they cannot wear 
[caused by bad fitting or stump shrinking, or any other cause,] 
can have them newly and satisfactorily fitted or otherwise al- 
tered, so they can be used with ease and comfort, by applying 
to either of my manufactories. 
As my workmen are men that have had a large experience 
in working for the (heretofore) best artificial limb manufactu- 
rers in America, I am prepared to repair and fix, in any way or 
shape, or alter over all kinds of artificial limbs, of every manu- 
facturers’ make, on short notice, on reasonable terms and in the 
most durable and satisfactory manner, at either of my manufac- 
tories. 
I am often asked what are the terms of payment for an artificial limb. 
In reply I have to say that as most of our work is done tor strangers living at a dis- 
tance, and as an artificial limb made for one will not fit another person without a heavy 
expense to me in altering it, I have adopted the same rule as all other first class artificial 
limb manufacturers, to wit: that twenty to twenty-five per cent of the purchase money 
must accompany each order for a new limb (except Government orders,') before the limb 
will be so far completed but what it could be easily altered for another, in case the party 
ordering it should fail to come after It. When the limb is fitted the balance is considered 
due. All bills, either for new work or repairing, are payable at the office, and any bills 
sent away by express will be marked U. O. D., and charged with the express charges in 
return money. Money can be sent safely either by post office orders, draft on New York, 
or by express. 
TERMS OP PAYMENTS. 
J. A. FOSTER. 4 
HOW TO GET THE BEST ARTIFICIAL LIMB WITHOUT MONET 
AND A VERY LITTLE TROUBLE. 
I have effected a contract whereljy persons wanting an artificial limb 
can procure a superior article by getting subscribers to the Western 
Rural, one of the best weekly agricultural and family papers published 
in the world. 
Any person having lost a limb and wishing to get an artificial one in 
this way, can write to H.N.F. Lewis, publisher of the Western Rural, at 
either Chicago, 111., or Detroit, Mich., and state their intentions. He 
will then forward sample copies and premium list free, and give one- 
half of the entire receipts on all subscriptions attho club rate (|2.00 per 
year), procured and forwarded to him, in cash orders, for an artificial 
limb at the regular price 1 
As fast as the names and money are secured, they should be forward- 
ed to Mr. Lewis, with name and post office address of each subscriber. 
It is not necessary to have them all at one post office, for the paper 
will be sent to as many post offices as is necessary. Money sent to Mr. 
Lewis, either by draft on New York, by post office order, or by express, 
will be at his risk, and on all sums over ten dollars he will pay the 
expense of sending. 
If the person does not get subscribers enough to pay for the limb, he 
will receive an'order at the rate of one dollar for each subscriber, which 
will be received by me as part payment, and the balance can be paid at 
the office where the limb is made. 
Never before were such liberal inducements offered to those who have 
been so unfortunate as to lose a limb to procure the very best kind of an 
artificial one. The offer is such that any deserving person in need can, 
with a very little exertion, procure one of th,e very best kind. I believe, 
with this very liberal offer, there can be no ekcuse to be hobbling about 
on crutches, or drag out a miserable existence on an old fashioned peg 
leg. I believe there is hardly a person in the country who would refuse 
to subscribe to aid an unfortunate person in such an object, even if they 
should not get the value of their mouey in the paper. 
The Western Rural commenced its Eighth Volume, January 1st, 1870. 
It has been received with emphatic approval by both Press and People, 
and now finds its way regularly to more than 50,000 firesides, and up- 
wards of 250,000 readers, embracing nearly every post office in the 
Western States. The publisher will spare no effort to make it con- 
stantly more acceptible to its readers. 
LATER AND STILL BETTER!—A NEW PAPER! 
Since the foregoing was in type, Mr. Lewis has started a new idea in 
the newspaper line, which the papers speak highly of. The Chicago 
Evening Post says: 
“Thh Young Folk*’ Rural.”—H. N. F. Lewis, Esq., the well-known publisher of 
that admirable weekly, the Western Rural, has projected a new rural and literary journal, 
under the title of the \Young Folks' Rural, it is intended especially for the boy* and 
girls in their “ teen*,” the young men and young women. Prizes are ottered to young 
writers. Altogether it i* a new thing in journalastic ventures, and will create a stir among 
the Coming Men and Women. Mr. Lewi* i* just the man to make it a “big thing.” 
The subscription price of this paper is $1.00 per year, and the Western 
Rural $2.00, and one-hdlf of the whole turn raised by Mr. L. on sub- 
scriptions for either or both papers will be retained in orders for my 
limbs, which will be as good to me as cash. The new paper is some- 
thing adapted to every family and to all parts of the United States. 
JAS. A. FOSTER. PREFACE. 
In offering this edition to the maimed, I merely wish to show 
the improvements I have made in Artificial Limbs, and the ad- 
vantages I possess over other manufacturers for making such im- 
provements. Art can very closely imitate, but, of course, it cau 
never substitute nature itself; but by repeated experiments, ap- 
plied with skill, and a desire to aid the afflicted, (as well as 
myself,) I think I have achieved a wonderful degree of success in 
this direction. 
I know that the attention of the ingenious and humane has long 
been directed to the construction of a substitute for a lost limb- 
something that should possess symmetrical beauty and graceful 
movement, combined with durability. For some time before I 
suffered an amputation above the knee, which occurred February 
15th, 1860, I felt a great interest in these efforts, and when it was 
ascertained for a certainty that I must have my limb amputated, 
the anxiety with which I watched and hoped for their success can- 
not be expressed. 
I might write a voluminous and very interesting history con- 
cerning the introduction and uses of artificial limbs, but it would 
all tend to little practical importance. I will mention, however, 
that artificial limbs were first introduced by Verdiner, a learned 
Dutch surgeon, as early as the year 1696. Since that period many 
inventions and improvements have been made, until crutches aud 
the old fashioned straight stick or peg leg have nearly become 
obsolete. 
Those that have given this branch of mechanical surgery their 
attention have been from almost every occupation in life—from the 
mechanic to the doctor—so self-styled M. D., LL. D., &c.—and 
adventurous speculators. I wish it borne in mind that I claim 
no such title to this profession as M. D. or LL. D., but what 
I do claim is that I was a practical mechanician before I lost 
my limb, and have since (before establishing for myself) served 
an apprenticeship at the business of manufacturing artificial limbs. 
The limbs invented have been as various as the minds that 
originated them, though but few have proved of sufficient utility to 
find favor with the public for any great length of time. 
The late war, through which we have passed, called into 
activity the inventive genius of our people in a remarkable degree 
and many kinds of artificial limbs will date their origin from that 
great struggle. The wooden peg leg which was used by the dis- 
abled hero, according to the cuts in our old books, is now displaced 6 
by the handsomely turned and graceful limb of late inventors. In 
the ease of the loss of a limb, a* simple peg or hook is found to be 
quite useful and easily applied, but is neither graceful nor beautiful. 
The great object now to be attained is to combine those qualities 
in a limb that w ill make it practically available in the rough and 
tumble of every day life, as well as beautiful in form and finish. I 
believe my Patent Union Limb now stands pre-eminent among its 
rivals for lightness and durability, combined with beauty of form 
and finish, affording the wearer the satisfying consciousness that 
what he uses to conceal his loss is not a disgusting appendage, but 
on the contrary, a limb entirely worthy to conceal his loss. After 
reading the following pages, 1 leave the reader to judge whether I 
havenothad superior advantagesforexporimentingwith theartifieial 
leg. I cousider the person that has suffered an amputation, and 
after wearing a limb made by another manufacturer procured one 
of mine, the best judge, for he (not like myself) is only interested 
in getting the best that is made. I therefore earnestly request a 
perusal of the certificates herewith appended, and, if they have any 
doubts of their authenticity, correspond with any of their authors. 
Their addresses are given in full, it will be observed, for that 
purpose. DESCRIPTION 
OF 
JAMES A. FOSTER'S 
PATENT 
UNION ARTIFICIAL LIMB. 
PATENTED AUG. 8th, 1865, & JUNE 29th, 1869. 
I call it the Union Limb, because it combines all the 
qualifications that can be expected to be found in arti- 
ficial limbs, namely: lightness, strength, simplicity of 
construction, durability, naturalness of motion and ana- 
tomical beauty. 
In giving a description of the Union Limb, I will 
state where some of the most prominent manufacturers 
fail, and how I remedy their imperfections. In speak- 
ing of their imperfections, I do not wish it understood 
that I consider them failures, for many of them have 
proved good substitutes for the natural limb, and have 
gladdened the hearts of thousands, who by their assist- 
ance have been enabled to walk and pursue their usual 
avocations again. But, I allow that some have 
brought honor to their inventors, there are, undoubtedly, others 
that every person who attempts to wear one of them will pronounce 
very imperfect. Admitting that they have all been very good and 
serviceable and all that, is it any reason that there can be no im- 
provements made on them as well as on any other article of manu- 
facture? In these days of mutilated soldiers, railroad employes, 
&c., I know of no branch of the manufacturing business that needs 
to be brought nearer perfection than this, and I know of no one 
thing that has attracted the attention of the ingenious and humane 
(as well as capitalists and adventurous speculators like this) and 8 
it is really astonishing as well as interesting and amusing to see 
the different kinds of appliances that have been invented and 
offered to the maimed since their first introduction into this coun- 
try, and more especially since the commencement of our late 
rebellion. 
Before the late war the sight of a person who had lost a limb 
was an unfrequent occurrence; but, alas ! now there are few of us 
who have not a cripple among our friends, if not in our own families. 
War unmakes iimbs, and human skill must supply their places 
as it best may. Most all of the artificial limbs manufactured that 
have gained a respectable notoriety by their merits, (except my 
patent Union Limb,) are manufactured after patents issued be- 
tween 1846 and 1860; and the manufacturers do not claim any- 
thing new of late in the way of improvements, but rely solely upon 
the supposition, and try to make others believe, that they had them 
brought to a state of perfection many years asro. One of the 
oldest manufacturers in the business, and at an early day he was cer- 
tainly the most meritorious, now denounces all other manufacturers 
whether good or bad, without any discrimination whatever, as 
charlatans, mountebanks, piratical copyists, &c., and in fact he 
cannot think of any name base enough to call them. Why is this ? 
I am well aware that there are some base imitators that deserve 
the contempt of all respectable manufacturers, who by their exten- 
sive advertising have succeeded in doing quite an extensive busi- 
ness, as many of the unfortunate maimed well know by sad ex- 
perience, but they will soon meet with the disdain they so richly 
deserve. 
At the time, these artificial limbs were really the best made 
in the world. If a man had gone through the country reiterating 
that at this time we should have a submarine telegraph to Europe 
or a railroad from the Atlantic to the Pacific, who would not have 
called him a fit subject for the lunatic asylum! In this enlightened 
age, what should we now say of a man that boldly asserts that 
long before the great rebellion artificial limbs were brought to a 
state of perfection ? 
What has the ingenuity of this country done of late? We 
have made implements of husbandry that out-mow and out-reap the 
world. We have invented.the knitting machine and the sewing 
machine, to save our mothers and sisters from uncongenial toil, so 
that they might have more leisure for self-development. We have 
a new system of labor in our machinery for making watches and 
rifles. We once revolutionized naval warfare by the steamboat. 
We now have revolutionized it a second time by planting towers of 
iron on the huge waves of the deep. While the weapons of warfare 
were being made at Springfield and Hartford to carry death to 
friend and foe, we have had bestowed upon us and all the world 
an anodine which enables us to cut oft legs and arms without pain 
to the patient; and what honest thinking man would not say, with 
the great additional demand for artificial limbs, and the great 
amount of skill which has been brought to bear to perfect them, 
that they too must march onward with the stride of progress. 9 
I claim that no other manufacturer has had the same facilities 
for experimenting with and improving artificial limbs that I have, 
for I had served a regular apprenticeship and was a practical mechanic 
before I lost my limb, (whieh was amputated in February, I860,) 
since which I have served my time with other manufacturers of 
artificial limbs, and have always hired the best workmen that 
could be procured from the oldest manufacturing establishments, 
thus having the benefit of others added to my ingenuity, and by 
repeatedly altering aud repairing limbs made by most all manu- 
facturers, have had every opportunity to become acquainted with 
the merits or demerits of every kind of artificial limbs, and by 
being constantly brought in contact with the wearers, from that 
day until this, I have studied theirs as well as my wants, and now 
claim to have combined the best principles of those that had any, 
with new principles of my own, and have tested them by practical 
applications to myself as well as others, and for the proof of how 
well I have succeeded, I refer the reader to the certificates of 
those that have worn other artificial limbs aud are now wearing 
those manufactured by me; aud then take iuto consideration the 
fact that when I opened an office and manufactory at Detroit, 
Mich., and Bly’s limbs were universally used and re- 
commended by the medical profession, and without any patronage 
from soldiers that were supplied by Government for the first four 
years, and advertising very little, but relying on the superiority of 
my invention and workmanship, and keeping in my mind the fact 
that a good article would meet with the merit that it deserved, 
and that one good limb well fitted to a patient would find market 
for more, and knowing that a few extra dollars cost put into the 
construction of a good limb was better for the patient, and just as 
beneficial to me as though I had paid it towards extensive adver- 
tising, I have succeeded in bringing the demand of my Patent Union 
Artificial Limb to its present magnitude, which is in itself sufficient 
evidence of its superiority over all others. 
In my first experience in repairing artificial limbs I perceived the 
inconvenience that the wearer who lives at a distance from manu- 
factories must encounter in taking the limbs apart to oil or repair, 
or in case it needed a slight alteration. I found in all artificial 
limbs made, except Dr. Bly’s, that every cord aud spring which is 
used was inserted in such a way that not one of them could be 
repaired or removed and replaced without much difficulty, and in 
every instance you have to cut a hole through the side of the limb 
and dig out a pin that passes through the cord and glued in, or take 
the covering off from the bottom of the foot, (and sometimes both,) 
which is fastened on with glue aud, perhaps, tacks. 
Whether all these deficiencies were an oversight, or whether 
they were originally intended for the purpose of compelling >he 
wearer to send his limb to the manufacturer in case some trifling 
thing should happen to go wrong, I am unable to say, but this 
much I am certain of: it is very inconvenient to the wearer, and 
much cheaper for the manufacturer to make, supplying the latter 10 
with a great deal of repairing that he would not otherwise get if 
they were constructed (like my Patent Union Artificial Limbs) so 
that every cord and spring could be repaired, or removed and re- 
placed by the wearer. 
Dr. Bly makes his limbs so that the cords and springs about 
the ankle joint only can be removed and replaced without much 
trouble; but he constructs his cords in such a way that they are 
continually wearing out and breaking, and cannot be made by any 
one who does not thoroughly understand the business. 
Many people that have never seen an artificial limb have 
the mistaken idea that when it is once applied it becomes 
flesh and bone and subject to all the diseases which afflict the 
natural limbs, and medicine taken internally or applied exter- 
nally would have the same effect on it as on any part of the 
human system. If this was so I would yield to the claim of 
some manufacturers that doctors [and self-styled M. Ds. and 
LL. Ds.j should be the originators and manufacturers, instead 
of mechanicians like myself; but, unfortunately for the maimed 
such is not the case, for an artificial limb is nothing more or less 
than a piece of machinery, and, without proper care it will 
wear out in time the same as other mechanical devices, hence 
the importance of having them constructed in such a manner that 
every piece susceptible of wearing out or giving way, can be 
taken out, repaired and replaced by the wearer, without any 
trouble. There is no piece of mechanism made by man but 
what usage or time will wear out, for what things earthly will 
last always ? 
The knee joints I discovered were very defective. The 
knee pin being too small and not properly bushed, of course, 
soon wears loose, thereby causing—as all who wear artificial 
limbs well know—a very disagreeable rattling noise when 
walking, which the wearer cannot obviate without sending 
the limb to the manufacturer for repairs. The knee spring in 
general use causes a very unnatural step and appearance by its 
rigidness. When the knee is being flexed, in the act of taking 
a step, the foot is brought forward with such force and is 
thrown so high that when it is brought in contact with the 
floor it makes a very disagreeable sound, which attracts the 
attention of all present to the fact that an artificial limb is 
worn. Another and still more important failure is in the way 
the knee is adjusted, which is not noticed by spectators, unless 
a person is seen prostrate on the ground or in the act of picking 
himself up, either position being very disagreeable to the 
wearer. I would ask any one who has worn an artificial leg manu- 
factured by Palmer and many others, for a thigh amputation, 
if he happens, accidentally, to put his weight upon it when the 
knee is partially flexed, in the act of taking a step, whether 
it will not give way and cause him to fall, unless he is very 
active ? Some have tried to obviate this defect by making the 
knee-spring of sufficient rigidity to insure safety, thus causing 11 
the unnatural gait and thumping sound which characterize 
nearly all artificial legs now in use. Some manufacturers of 
late have tried to get rid of that disagreeable rattling of the 
knee joint, but without success, so far. 
It is very essential that the knee joint should be so con- 
structed as to do away with this tendency to flex out forward, 
unless kept in a certain position, and at the same time possess 
the power to draw the foot forward with an easy, natural 
motion, that will resemble very closely the motion of the 
natural limb. It is also necessary to have some method of 
regulating it so that it w ill compensate for the wearing of the 
bolt and prevent the rattling so often heard in artificial joints. 
In the first artificial limb I made and wore, the knee joint 
was constructed after the most common pattern used at the 
time. I used this limb for some time, but found it necessary 
to be very careful to prevent falling. One day while at work, 
in an unguarded moment, the knee-joint flexed forward so sud- 
denly that I had no time to save myself, and measured my 
length on the floor. Although not very pleasant, it resulted 
in some good, for I soon conceited the idea that there could be 
some improvements made that would remedy this fault. I 
immediately began experimenting, and, after several unsuccess- 
ful attempts, I finally succeeded in constructing a joint that 
was perfectly free from such tendencies. It comprises three 
very essential qualities, viz: It takes the place of the knee- 
spring, regulates the motion of the lower part of the limb, 
causing it to move in harmony with the natural one, and com- 
pensates for any wear in the bushings of the knee-bolt, thereby 
entirely doing away with any tendency to rattle, which is 
a characteristic ol all other artificial limbs. All three of these 
very important improvements can be regulated by the turning 
of one screw, w hich is placed in a position to enable the wearer 
to operate it without difficulty. 
The Achilles or heel cord, in most artificial legs, often proves 
insufficient. Those made of cat-gut would be sufficiently strpng 
if kept perfectly dry, were it not for the short bend caused by 
the motion of the foot. This material is so brittle that it soon 
breaks close to the foot, and all who have worn limbs with 
this kind of a cord well knowr the trouble and expense neces- 
sarily incurred in getting it replaced. They are made in such 
a way that none but a manufacturer can replace them without 
materially injuring the limb otherwise. I make them of the 
best linen thread, consequently the short bend will not break 
them. I insert them in such a way that if one should give way 
the wearer can replace it himself without damaging or defacing 
the foot or any part of the leg. 
The ankle joint in an artificial limb is the most important 
part. I say most important, because it is the most liable to get 
out of repair, and should be made as light, simple and dwrdble as 
possible. The ankle joint of most all artificial limbs are defec* 12 
tive on account of the small pin that passes' through the foot, 
which wears too fast and lias no way to compensate for it, thus 
causing a great deal of trouble to keep it properly bushed to 
prevent noise, &c. The ankle joint I use for an improvement 
is simply a piece of steel, turned and polished, five-eighths of 
an inch in diameter, with two flanges around it for retaining 
the foot and leg in their relative positions. It is bored to make 
it light, and bolted firmly to the lower part of the leg; an eye 
bolt attached to this passes down through the bottom of the 
foot, with a nut on it, and this nut by being turned will com- 
pensate for any -wear that will ever oocur. This joint is so con- 
structed that no two pieces of metal.move against each other 
where bearing is taken. Although this is a metallic joint, its 
weight is less than three ounces. This is a very essential point 
as one ounce of extra weight in the ankle joint is more tire- 
some to carry and more detrimental to good walking than ten 
ounces in any part above the knee. 
With a heavy ankle joint it is impossible to make a knee- 
spring or regulator that will move the lower part of the leg in 
a natural manner, as it takes toq much power to start and stop 
such a heavy mass of material. By making the foot and lowrer 
leg light, this difficulty is avoided. 
The action of this spring is regulated by simply turning a 
nut, thus enabling the wearer to adjust it to suit himself with 
the greatest facility. 
This constitutes the lightest, most durable and least com- 
plicated ankle joint yet invented, for the proof of which I refer 
the reader to those that have worn limbs made by other manu- 
facturers, and have now thoroughly tested mine. 
To compensate for the wear, and to prevent the rattling so 
often heard in the old fashioned knee joints, I place in the interior 
of the knee a vertical eye bolt which, after receiving the knee bolt, 
-which is fastened to the leg part by means of steel straps— 
passes up through a bridge in the thigh piece, with a nut on the 
upper end, so that when the least amount of wear is visible the nut 
can be turned down at any time to compensate for any amount of 
wear that may occur. 
I make the knee bolt of the best cast steel, five eighths of an 
inch in diameter, and is bored to make it light, leaving the ex- 
ternal shell but one-sixteenth of an inch thick, and is secured by 
terminal screws, thus doing away with the small set screws com- 
monly used and thereby rendering any looseness by wear an im- 
possibility. The bearings of this bolt are properly bushed with 
the best kind of material to prevent its squeaking. 
For the foundation of this limb I use the English Willow, 
which I shape to correspond exactly, with the natural one, and 
hollow it out to make it light. It is covered with a strong raw- 
hide, which is prepared expressly for this purpose, and forms the 
main element of strength, and makes a smooth surface to receive 
the final finish, which is a delicate tinted water proof enamel or 
cement, colored to closely imitate nature. 13 
The sole of the foot is cushioned and covered with buckskin, to 
make it soft like the natural fo#,"and to prevent noise when walk- 
ing, and is so arranged that by taking out a screw the sole can be 
removed so as to get at any part of the mechanical arrangement of 
the foot. This will be highly appreciated by those that have worn 
limbs having the covering on the bottom of the foot glued or 
fastened on with tacks, in cases where a new spring or cord is 
required. 
The advantages I possess over other manufacturers in bringing 
the Artificial Leg to its present perfection, are : 1st. I was a prac- 
tical mechanician before my leg was amputated. 2. I have served 
a regular apprenticeship to the business, and in selecting workmen I 
get the most talented and experienced, from the oldest and most 
respectable manufactories. 3d. In my practice I have altered and 
repaired limbs from almost every manufactory in this country, good 
and bad, and not being favored with the title of M. D. or LL. D., 
—'nor with the audacity to assume those honorary titles for gain 
—but a practical mechanic, not afraid of soiling my hands or 
taking an old leg apart, became thoroughly acquainted with their 
weakest parts, and my mechanical knowledge has enabled me to 
see wherein they could be improved. 4th. I wear a full length 
limb myself. With these qualifications, if I cannot tell what is 
necessary in an artificial limb, who can ? 
JAMES A. FOSTER. 
WHY MY ATTENTION WAS CALLED TO THE MANUFACTURE 
OF ARTIFICIAL LIMBS. 
When my attention was first called to artificial limbs, it was 
with the expectation that I should sooner or later want one for 
my own use About ten years before I had my leg amputated I 
was attacked with a lameness in the knee. It did not seem to be 
very dangerous at first, but I soon found that it baffled the skill of 
all the surgeons I employed, although it became worse so slowly as 
to be scarcely perceptible. It then became necessary for me to 
confine my labor to some occupation that would give me an even 
.-m-face to walk upon so as to avoid injuring it. I had, previous 
to becoming lame, chosen a trade and served my time with a good 
mechanician. For two years before my leg was amputated, [Feb- 
ruary, I860,] I was certain it would have to be done, and this 
knowledge convinced me that I ought to be looking around and 
making examinations for the purpose of finding the best substitute 
From that time to the present I have made artificial limbs my 
constant study. During the last year of my lameness, previous 
to having my leg amputated, I was confined to my crutches, and 
having plenty of leisure, and my limb not being painful, I pro- cured pamphlets with specifications and drawings from the artifi- 
cial limb manufacturers, and studied them so thoroughly that 
when my leg was taken off I could give drawings and descrip- 
tions of all the limbs manufactured in the United States. But 
no one, be he ever so well skilled in the mechanical or surgical art 
can tell when a limb works with ease and comfort so well as the 
person who wears one—that I know by experience. 
14 
MY CHOICE IN A LIMB. 
I had decided in my own mind what manufacturer’s limb I 
should procure before I lost mine, but as I do not wish to be per- 
sonal, or further the interests of one manufacturer to the detri- 
ment of another, I will mention no nafmes. Suffice it to say that, 
after visiting the manufactory and thoroughly examining into the 
principles upon which it was made, I came to the conclusion that 
there might be something better. I then visited the most promi- 
nent manufacturing establishments where they were made, and 
after examining the principles on which the different limbs were 
constructed, I came to the conclusion that there might be one made 
lighter, and, at the same time be more durable. The result of this 
conclusion was I went home without purchasing, and soon com- 
menced to make one for my own use, with the joints constructed 
on a different principle, which I finished in November, 1862, and 
it worked as well as I could expect, although not quite as well as 
the one I lost, but better than many artificial ones I had seen in 
use. As I had nothing to occupy my time the next winter after 
finishing my first leg, I made two more—one after each of the two 
most celebrated legs then in use—for experimenting with. I wore 
them all at different times, and if I cannot tell which works the 
best, who can ? I was experimenting at this time with the sole 
view of getting a good leg for myself. 
At this time the great rebellion had fairly begun, and bid fair 
to put many brave boys in want of artificial limbs. Stimulated by 
the fact that I could walk batter after four months’ practice with 
a limb of my own make, than others after four years’ practice with 
limbs made by the best manufacturers in America (a fact admitted 
by all who saw me walk), and thinking it my duty to do all 
in my power to alleviate the suffering of the noble men who should 
lose limbs in that great war, and at the same time gain a livelihood 
for myself, I determined to make it my future business; but at 
that time I never expected the busiuess would increase to its 
present magnitude—in competition with those that had heretofore 
been considered so near 15 
MY COMMENCEMENT. 
It could Dot be expected that the first few limbs made by any 
one (on a new principle) that had never bad a practical teaching 
of the art, would be the acme of perfection in every particular. 
Although the principles were right, 1 lacked the knowledge to give 
them the artistic beauty of external finish. 
After decidiug to make this my, future business, I determined 
not to offer one with an inferior external appearance, but one 
beautified to the highest perfection, as Well as the most pertect in- 
ternally arranged for simplicity, strength and lightness 5 conse- 
quently 1 thought it best to, go where they were made and learn 
all that other manufacturers knew- of the business, so that instead 
of commencing back where begun, I might be even with them 
in the external finish of limbs, as well as in advance on the internal 
mechanism. 
After receiving a practical education of the business, and learn- 
ing all I could from experienced limb makers and the unfortunates 
that my occupation brought me in contact with, I determined to go 
to some western city and commence a small business and do what 
I could within myself, not doubting that the merits of my invention 
would be appreciated as soon as offered for sale. Before I could 
enter upon this step, however, it was necessary to procure materials, 
and to construct models, samples, &c., and to do this I returned 
to my home in St. Lawrence Co., New York, aud fcegan my work 
of preparation. 
Here I met with considerable' delay in carrying out the main 
part of my plan, for no sooner had I got my first model made than 
a demand for my limbs sprung up in that vicinity, and I was 
solicited by those that had lost limbs to make for them, and the 
% result was that I was detained there about eighteen months. 
When I started West I knew not what city I should locate in, 
but intended to visit Cleveland, Detroit, Chicago, St. Louis, In- 
dianapolis and Cincinnati, to ascertain which place I should like 
the best for my future home; for with the improvements I had 
made I had no fears of not building up a good business in any of 
those cities, in competition with auy artificial limb then made. 
On arriving in Detroit, in November, 18G4, the beauty of the 
place, and the entreaty of some of the leading surgeons, induced 
me to remain there and open a manufactory. 
I introduced my limbs there in competition with many other 
kinds. Many soldiers and citizens in Michigan, as well as in the 
adjoining States, had already procured limbs from other establish- 
ments, but as soon as mine were seen they were at once appreciat- 
ed, and the business so“ rapidly increased that I had to employ 
help. Many of the limbs I made were for parties living at a dis- 
tance, and their popularity abroad became such that I was urged 
to open offices and manufactories in other cities, until the business 
has reached its present proportions. TO THOSE SUFFERING FROM LOSS OF LIMBS. 
16 
>' Pre-eminent Bkill and proficiency in the art of making artificial 
limbs can never be attained except by a man who is a thorough 
mechanician, wears one himself, and makes it his constant study, which 
first I claim to be, and have done the last. No man is justified in 
engaging in this business if he only regards it as a trading pursuit 
or money making speculation. By Conscientious practitioners it 
must ever be a serious and important undertaking, for nothing can 
be more painful to the wearer of an imperfect piece of mechanism 
than the reflection that he has been grossly deceived, and not only 
sacrificed his money but his personal comfort and hopes of benefit 
to be derived from it. In the present age of useful inventions 
when every year, hay, every month sends forth a new one, it muBt 
perplex such sufferers as have no knowledge of mechanical combi- 
nations to decide upon the best substitutes for the limbs they have 
lost, and the best and most sure way to accomplish this is to either 
visit the different manufactories personally and examine and com- 
pare their productions, or correspond with those that have worn 
the different kinds. I have given the names and address of many, 
in another part of this pamphlet, for that purpose, and would fur- 
nish more should any person desire it. 
I have a large variety of the different kinds of the heretofore 
best patent mnbs at my different places of business, which have 
been left by parties who have purchased of me, which I would be 
pleased to show to any one, whether he wished to buy a limb or 
not—not to detract anything from the merits of those that have 
been good and serviceable, but by so doing I can better illustrate 
wherein I have made improvements; and I hope to be able to 
improve artificial limbs so as to keep pace with the rapid stride qf 
progress made in other articles of manufacture, for I believe no 
one possesses the same qualifications for such improvements that 
I do. 
It should always be borne in mind that artificial limbs are not 
like ordinary garments, to be worn for a season and changed as 
the fashions vary, but are designed for permanent use during life. 
In choosing limbs, therefore, only such as will stand the test of 
time, combining lightness and simplicity of construction with 
strength and durability, and most conducive to the comfort of the 
wearer, regardless of the cost, should be obtained, for they will 
surely prove the cheapest in the end. 
My qualifications are, that I was a first-class mechanic when I 
lost my leg, and have since studied the anatomy of the extremities 
with reference to the construction of artificial ones quite thorough- 
ly, and consequently think I am justified in claiming that ray 
workmanship is just as reliable as that superintended by some doctor 
or lawyer who does not possess the least mechanical skill. I wish 
it especially understood also, that I hold myself responsible for any 
failure from the use of poor material or bad workmanship. 17 
IS IT BEST TO HAVE AN ARTIFICIAL LIMB? 
This question often comes in the mind of one who has lost 
a limb. To such I would say that it is for you to decide, not 
me. If you are not obliged to work and have no inclination 
to do so, and no pride or regard for your personal appearance 
and comfort, I would say don’t buy one. But to those who 
have business to attend to and have some regard tor their per- 
sonal appearance and comfort, I would say, get you a limb, for 
they are not like false teeth, eyes ‘and hair, made merely for 
ornament, but for permanent usefulness. A man with an am- 
putation above the knee, if he gets a good leg, can do a good 
days work at nearly all of mechanical labor, and a great 
deal at many other kinds of business ; and with an amputation 
below the knee and a good Jit, can do most any kind of work 
that he could do before losing his limb. 
“A sound mind in a sound body,” is the comprehensive de- 
scription of the state of a perfect man. The loss of a faculty, 
or of a member, destroys that enviable perfection ; and to re- 
store the one, or provide an adequate substitute for the other, is 
an object worthy of tlife highest efforts of beneficence. The 
greatest poets in our tongue have found a theme in the horrors 
of natural deformity. Those of accidental mutilation have the 
added pang of contrast. 
The crutch has a very injurious effect upon the health of the 
patient by obstructing the circulation, injuring the nerves, pro- 
ducing partial paralysis by distroying the spine and other por- 
tions of the trunk, affecting injuriously the circulation and the 
lungs. All these effects are avoided by the use of the leg, and 
would be alleviated where they already exist, if not entirely 
cured by the substitution of the leg. 
We can never reduce the value of a limb to exact pecuniary 
statement until we learn to measure human sensibilities with a 
rule, and weigh human joys and sorrows in a balance. When 
a person is deprived of a leg, his loss is not to be gauged by 
its former services, but by his wounded sensibilities, and, phy- 
sically, by a long train of cruel sufferings arising from well un- 
derstood physiological causes. The man’s material interests 
are also usually affected by his unfitness tor the pursuit of the 
avocation to which he had previously been devoted. Railroad 
employes being frequently subjects of the accidents which re- 
sult in mutilation, afford an example. They are never, or 
rarely, able to go about their wrork on crutches, and hence are 
often reduced to pauperism by the loss of a leg, and become 
a charge upon the community. 
Before I wore an artificial limb I thought myself very expert 
in the use of crutches, and I have been on them until I felt a 
sharp pain in my arm, running down the elbow and even to my 
fingers; and I was acquainted with a man in the town of 
Madrid, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., who went upon one crutch 
until he lost the use of his right hand, and was compelled to 18 
get an artificial limb. I saw him afterwards, and he was walk- 
ing very well (although his leg was amputated quite close to 
the body], and he wondered how he could have been so foolish 
as to do -without one so long. I think, alter reading the fore- 
going, and the testimony from patients wearing my limbs, and 
more especially that of Mr. Harper, no one can reasonably 
doubt but a person with any stump at all can do a good busi- 
ness with an artificial limb. I think, since artificial limbs have 
been brought to their present state of perfection, that there is 
no reasonable excuse lor a man to go stumping about with the 
old fashioned peg leg, or drag out a miserable existence on a 
pair of crutches, Some may say they aro not able to wear such 
an expensive limb. • 
I think it is safe to assert that thousands who would 
be able to care for themselves, and can do more by gettiag 
a good limb, are, without such, a consuming instead of a 
producing part of the population, and that the community in 
which they live would, .by combining to furnish them, be 
largely the gainers in the end. 
Laboring men and women comprise a very large majority of 
those who suffer amputation of the inferior extremities, most 
of whom obtain artificial legs to compensate their loss, and 
thus are enabled to pursue their usual avocations and subsist 
therefrom. Of this portion nearly one-half obtain limbs by 
the gratuities of the sympathizing and considerate community, 
who entertain the abstract principle that their own moral and 
financial interests are involved in the interests and greatest 
usefulness of their suffering neighbors. They judge rigidly. 
In every instance they are the benefactors of mankind who 
contribute to the greatest usefulness and happiness of the 
mutilated; and who by their moral efforts both conserve and 
restore. 
Many persons too poor to buy limbs for themselves, are also 
too proud to accept a subscription made by their neighbors 
and friends to get them one. I think this wrong and exceed- 
ingly foolish. We all remember nnmerous instances where a 
man has lost property by fire, or had money stolen from him 
and had it made up by a friendly contribution. And what 
property or amount of money can be considered of hall the 
value of a limb. To people of moderate means I would say 
that limbs are like articles of wearing apparel, and one of 
limithd means cdn get a very serviceable limb, although, of 
course, the most expensive are the best and cheapest in the end. 
An artificial limb is light, strong and comfortable improves 
the appearance and prevents your being particularly noticed 
in the street, and from disagreeable, though generally kindly 
meant, expressions of sympathy. 19 
WHY IS IT THAT SOME GET LIMBS AND DO NOT WEAR 
THEM ? 
In reply to this I would say that there are several reasons, a few 
of which I will here state. 
Soipe have been unfortunate enough to buy a worthless limb of 
some unscrupulous manufacturer. Some after buying a limb have 
come to the conclusion that it is easier to live by the aid of their 
benevolent neighbors and friends than to work for an honest living, 
and by laying their limb aside under the pretence that it is out of 
repair, or it hurts-them, or some other frivolous excuse, that they 
will receive more assistance from a sympathizing community.— 
There are others who may get the best kind and properly adapted 
to them, but are not energetic enough to apply themselves persist- 
ently to learning to walk, and such would hardly ever accomplish 
much at anything they undertake. They think when they get an 
artificial limb, it will appear and feel in every respect like the 
natural one, and that they can and will be able to walk as well and 
as easy when they first put it on, without any practice, as they 
ever could. Such is not the case, however. A limb feels uncom- 
fortable when first applied, and a person needs to exercise great 
patience and to possess considerable energy to become a proficient 
in walking; but if they will put forth energy and determination 
they will surely succeed, and in a short time will become so 
attached to the limb that they would not part with it for love nor 
money. It is true there are some oases where it is inconvenient for 
a person to wear an artificial limb, but such are very uufrequent, 
and a manufacturer that thoroughly understands his business can 
define them, and, if honorable, will not advise such unfortunate to 
buy one, just for the sake of making a sale, for such an act would 
be a disgrace to the calling. „ 
In many cases a just cause arises from their not being properly 
adjusted. It makes no difference by whom the limb is made, or 
how good it may be in.other respects, if it is not properly fitted to 
the stump it is an uncomfortable appendage and a source of annoy- 
ance, as any one can tell by noting the expression of pain on the 
faces of many snch unfortuuates when walking. 
This is not always a fault of the manufacturer, for many wlfo 
want an artificial limb, wish to save the expense of a journey to 
the manufactory, find had rather run the risk of having it fitted 
by measure (which is wrong in every instance when it is a leg 
wanted), consequently their failure to procure a perfect fit. 
FITTING ARTIFICIAL LIMBS BY MEASURE. 
The injurious practice of fitting a leg by measure alone, with- 
out seeing the patient, has arisen from the strong competition in 
the different parts of the United States caused by the late rebel- 
lion. Most of the manufacturers seem inclined to sell all they can, 20 
whether they are ever used or not, consequently they advertise 
(which they well know to be false) that by some new test measure 
or process they can make and fit a leg just as well by measure as 
though the patient should visit the manufactory, thus saving them 
the expense of a journey. This is wrong, and every consciencious 
manufacturer ought to discountenance the practice, for it ip in- 
jurious to those that want limbs both physically and financially in 
the end; for if a limb is not properly fitted, it chafes, irritates, 
annoys, and finally disgusts the patient, and in many instances he 
will lay it aside altogether and take to his crutches or the old 
fashioned peg leg, and indulge in the sad reflection that he has 
been grossly deceived by the representations of persons pretending 
to be able to alleviate his misery—that he has sacrificed not only 
his money, but his personal comfort also, and that he has been 
utterly disappointed in all his flattering hopes and expectations. 
When Congress passed the law to give soldiers who lost limbs 
in the war an artificial one, they made no provision for them to go 
to the manufactory to have them fitted, and the soldier had to 
either have his limb made by measure, or pay his own traveling 
expenses, consequently many of them tried the unfortunate experi- 
ment of having them made by measure. It was not long, however, 
before the disastrous effect was made known to those in authority, 
and it was arranged to give soldiers free transportation to and from 
the manufactory to have their limbs properly fitted. If those who 
bought limbs for others to wear saw the inconvenience of having 
them made by measure without Seeing the patient, ought not those 
who are to use them during life to look well to their interest be- 
fore trying the experiment ? 
The manufacturers gain nothing by so doing, for one manufac- 
turer can and does have the same facilities for taking the measures 
and fitting by them as another, and if one firm adopts the practice, 
others can, and many of them have, and more will continue to do 
so, notwithstanding the amount -of suffering it must eventually 
cause to the unfortunate maimed. This was commenced first by 
some of .the Eastern firms, (as ..well as some worthless and unprin- 
cipled manufacturers) who felt that some of our Western branch 
manufactories much of their trade on account of the 
expense of the journey, if not by giving them a superior article. 
I am sorry to see some of the pioneer manufacturers (who are now 
being outdone by new inventors, and fear to lose the monopoly they 
once enjoyed) are among the first to adopt such a wicked practice, 
but it is truly said that a drowningman will grasp at a straw in the 
effort to save his life, and that seems to be the case with some of 
the manufacturers of artificial limbs. Even this gross folly will 
not save them however, for right must and will triumph and attain 
the success it merits in this as in any other calling. 
Those that advertise that they can make and fit a leg just as 
well by measure, do not care to have the patient come and investi- 
gate the latest improvements; but for me, I had rather every one 
that contemplates buying an artificial limb would visit every other 21 
fnauufaCtory before coming to me; they will then be better pre- 
pared to appreciate my improvements 
I know there are some who have had artificial legs satis- 
factorily fitted by measure who will disagree with me on this sub- 
ject, for I have made some myself, and should do so again if the 
necessity existed for it, notwithstanding my denunciation of the 
practice, for there are many instances that might be mentioned 
where a manufacturer would be justified in so doing. 
Artificial arms can, in most cases, be fitted s®, if measured 
correctly, but a cast of the stump taken in Plaster Paris would 
be preferable. 
I have found in my practice many who had been to the 
manufactory and had their limbs made and fitted, and then 
have not used them, or if used at all, they were more an imple- 
ment of torture than relief. 
Very few thoroughly understand that a perfect fit is, for 
comfort, the most essential part of the business. 
There are very few who have suffered amputation of a limb 
that are not able to wear a false one. Ia most manufactories 
the fitting is done by journeymen who wish to accomplish about 
so much, and do not pay much attention to the condition of the 
stump, and there are mauy in such a shape or condition that it 
requires much time and the exercise of a great amount of 
judgment and patience to get an easy and comlortable fit. 
It is not necessary here for me to reiterate the advantage I 
have over all others to have this branch of the art perfect, and 
that I employ the most talented artizans that can be had from 
the oldest manufactories; but I would say that every one of 
such workmen go through a regular course of personal instruc- 
tions from me, and even after all this precaution, in all bad 
cases, I go from one of my manufactories to the other to per- 
sonally assist them, and if I cannot, with my advantages, give 
you satisfaction, I fail to see where you can get it. 
I hope all who have been so unfortunate as to get an artifi- 
cial limb they cannot wear, will give me a oall, at either manu- 
factory, and if I do not help you, I will make no charge. 
WHAT CLASS OF MEN OUGHT TO MANUFACTURE 
ARTIFICIAL LIMBS. 
All artificial limb manufacturers of any distinction claim a par- 
ticular preference. Some merely because they have lost a limb, 
notwithstanding the fact that they never served an apprenticeship 
at the business, nor at any other mechanical occupation; others 
because they were surgeons, and by frequent dissections have be- 
come familiar with the anatomy of the natural limb, and thus 
learned to counterfeit nature in the artificial one. Many have 22 
assumed the title of M. D., because they think it more popular 
with the maimed; and one manufacturer, fo be more prominent 
with honorary titles, in addition to Dr., adds LL. D., and some- 
times styles himself Surgeon Artist for the Government, and at 
other times, to the hospitals. 
As for those who have no mechanical skill, or have assumed hon- 
orable titles for renown, I have nothing to say; but I wish to 
notice more particularly the manufacturers who claim to be 
anatomists. Of all the manufacturers of artificial limbs that claim 
to be anatomists, surgeons, &c., I believe there are only two who 
are graduates of a medical college, or who ever studied surgery, 
and both of those claim to manufacture artificial limbs on purely 
anatomical principles, and the internal arrangement of their limbs 
are as diverse in their construction as any other two of the most 
extreme kinds now in use. Why is this? Did not our Creator 
construct the joints in men’s limbs all alike? Until I read the 
teachings of those two distinguished anatomists I was so ignorant 
as to suppose (as I think all do who have not read their writings) 
that he did. but if either of them imitate nature, my early teach- 
ings were all wrong. 
Should the surgeon who amputated my leg start an artificial 
limb manufactory, and for the purpose of imitating nature, take 
the member he cut oft for his model, he would make a different 
article in internal construction from those manufactured by the 
two professors. I wish more anatomists would engage in the 
business of making limbs on anatomical principles (not mechanical) 
that we might learn [according to their views] the different ways 
in which our Creator made joints for the human limbs. 
The most prominent of those professors, in his descriptive pam- 
phlet, says: “ Formerly the manufacture of artificial legs has 
been left to common mechanics and those who have underqone amputa- 
tion.” 
As I am the only manufacturer who was a practical mechani- 
cian and lost a limb, I think this was intended for me—at any 
rate the coat fits, and I will put it on, button it up and consider it 
mine and thank the gentleman for it, and I except the issue and 
propound a few questions and facts for him or any candid person 
to consider. 
I think no one will deny but what an artificial limb is a piece of 
machinery; a device intended to substitute nature as nearly as 
possible. Now who makes or repairs machinery of every kind 
and description ? Is it a surgeon or mechanic ? 
When these anatomists make an artificial limb of any other ma- 
terial than that used by mechanics for the same purpose, or con- 
struct one on such principles that it can be doctored or repaired by 
any one of the profession (not excepting themselves) without call- 
ing on a mechanic to perform the labor, their arguments will look 
more feasible. 23 
When these anatomists want workmen to manufacture these 
limbs, why do they advertise for mechanics instead of surgeons ? 
If they are really the right class to make a machine to assist in 
walking, why are they not the right ones to invent and manufac- 
ture machines to assist the hands in manual labor, such as washing 
machines, sewing machines, knitting machines, and many useful 
devices made to assist man on his farm and many other places. 
Suppose a person living in a city where there was no artificial 
limb manufactory J but plenty of anatomists] should go and buy an 
artificial limb of one of these professors of anatomy, and after re- 
turning home it should break or require some slight alteration, 
and he should write and ask whether he should take it to a doctor 
or mechanic to put it in order, what would be the reply ? 
As to the advantages I possess, in wearing a limb in connection 
with my mechanical ability, for making the best limb, I have 
nothing more to say, but would ask the reader to peruse the certi- 
cates published in another part of this pamphlet and judge for 
himself who makes the best artificial limb at the present day. 
JAMES A. FOSTER. 
It is perhaps unnecessary to suggest modes of amputation, or 
certain points of election best adapted to the successful application 
of a serviceable artificial limb, as in nearly all cases the disease or 
injury will necessarily govern the surgeon. 
I do not think it necessary to issue new rules for ampu- 
tation, or suggest the need of cutting flesh and bone to fit 
what I make. I claim that in every case I can fit a good limb, 
answering well the purpose for which it is intended; but as there 
are points for amputation which are most advantageous to the 
patient, I deem it best to give my preference, which I believe is 
the choice of nearly all artificial limb manufacturers. 
Since an early period in surgery, surgeons have recognized the 
importance of selecting such points for amputation of the lower 
extremities as were best adapted to the application of artificial 
limbs, and many of the authors of works on surgery have given 
such points as were considered best adapted to the artificial limbs 
made at the time; but the great improvements which have been 
made in artificial limbs have materially changed the old points of 
election, therefore this subject demands the attention of sur- 
geons generally. In accordance with the high state of perfection 
now attained in the construction of artificial limbs, all ampuata- 
tions performed on the foot should be anterior to the insertion of 
the flexors of the foot. The operation known as “ Chopart’s,” 
severs the flexors of the foot, and should never be performed 
under any circumstances whatever. The moment the flexors are 
WHERE TO AMPUTATE. 24 
severed, the extensors, having no antagonists, draw the heel up- 
ward, extend the foot or the leg, and causes theamputated surface 
to point almost directly downward. I am aware that to obviate 
this difficulty some surgeons have severed the tendon achilles, but 
that has proved ineffectual—it is only a partial relief at best. The 
wound is slow to heal, always tender, and the remaining portion of 
the foot is generally a curse to the patient as long as he lives, un- 
less he submits to a secondary amputation. Dr. Bly says : “ The 
Professor of Surgery in the Geneva Medical College performed a 
secondary amputation for such a patient. This patient had had 
the tendon achilles cut twice, and then made an unsuccessful effort 
to wear a substitute constructed by a noted firm in New York 
city, but at last, to better his condition, was obliged to submit to 
re-amputation. Another case of the same kind came under my 
personal knowledge at tne city of Detroit, in the fall of 1865. 
This patient had made an unsuccessful effort for one year to wear 
a substitute constructed by a New York firm. In April, 1866, 
No. 1. 
Mr. F. G. Rand applied to me for a pair of artificial legs, (here 
was a chance to prove what I formerly believed) one was amputated 
at the junction of the lower and middle third of the tibia, the 
other through the foot, known as Chopart’s operation. His am- 
putations were performed December 25th, 1863 ; eight days after, 
both hands were amputated, all caused by being frozen on the 9th. 
I finished the legs in August, 1866; when he put them on he 
walked without the assistance of a cane, and he has always ex- 
pressed his preference in favor of the amputation performed at the 
junction of the lower and middle third of the tabia. I believe all 
manufacturers dislike this kind of amputation. 
Amputation through the ankle joint, by sawing through the 
malleoli, known as Symes’ operation, is less objectionable; still, 
since the artificial leg has been brought to such perfection, there 
are reasons which weigh heavily against the operation. The ankle 25 
joint in the artificial leg should correspond with the one of the 
natural leg, but cannot in this case on account of the length of the 
tibia and fibula, therefore the joint must be placed a little lower 
than the other. To get a good fit with an artificial limb the stump 
should be conical, or at least it should not be lal-ger at the end 
than it is higher up, as it renders a portion of the interior of the 
artificial leg too large, if made large enough to allow the bulbous 
extremity to pass through, or, if the leg is made to lace up even, 
then the ankle is necessarily large and clumsy. It has been sup- 
posed that by this operation the patient would be able to take the 
most, if not all, his weight upon the end of the stump; but the 
majority of cases which have come under my observation do not 
sustain the supposition, though I have seen some that would with 
ease. Therefo re, when an amputation becomes necessary which 
would sever the flexors of the foot, it should be performed a suffi- 
cient distance above the ankle joint to admit of an artificial sub- 
stitute with an ankle joint of the most perfect construction now 
attained. The junction of the middle and lower third of the 
tibia is the lowest point 
at which amputation of 
the leg can be performed 
and give sufficient room 
for the construction of a 
good, substantial and 
gracefel artificial limb, 
with an ankle joint of 
the most recent improvement. It 
also gives a stump of as much length at 
is of any use to the patient. Therefore 
the junction of the middle and lower 
third of the tibia should be the first 
point of election whenever the flexors 
of the foot cannot be saved. (See 
point indicated on cut No. 1.) 
Then from this point the surgeon 
should not recede unless compelled 
by necessity. He should contest 
every inch until driven to the knee 
joint. 
Often, in cases which admit of most favorable amputation, (near 
the ankle,) a most unwarrantable portion of the leg is removed, 
and not unfrequently the knee is permitted to remain semi-flexed 
so long as to become incapable either of full flexion or extension, 
while in innumerable instances a healthy joint is found fully flexed 
and permanently useless for want of a little care in healing. Such 
practice cannot be too strongly reprehended. It is always advisable 
to amputate high enough to secure a good flap, which is very im- 
portant, as it prevents unpleasant sensations, such as arise from a 
slight tension of the thin skin, too often found to be the only cov- 
This cut represents an external view of a leg for 
an amputation below the knee. 26 
cring of a protruding bone. Amputation at any point below the 
knee is preferable in all cases, if safety in healing may be appre- 
hended, and if there be no abnormal condition of the knee joint to 
forbid such an election. If the knee be diseased or anchylosed, 
and the joint fully extended, or only partially flexed, in such a man- 
ner as to prevent supporting the weight of the body on the knee, then, 
indeed, the lower third [or fourth] of the thigh should become the 
point of election; otherwise, never. 
Amputation for a knee support of the leg, near the head of the 
tibia, should always be the work of necessity, not of caprice; for 
the natural knee joint, in the use of an artificial leg, should never 
be unnecessarily sacrificed ; nevertheless, a leg with a knee-bear- 
ing and artificial knee joint, is a highly satisfactory and useful 
dependance, both for utility and naturalness. 
The operation for the application of a leg to take the bearing on 
the knee should be performed so as to allow the end of the stump, when 
flexed, to fall one inch back of the thigh, to form a sort of grapple, 
as it fits the concavity of a socket, by which means the limb maybe 
held securely in its place without any appendages to connect 
it with the waist or shoulders. The 
end of the stump is so secure from 
all pressure [in the hollow of this 
socket] that use does not produce exco- 
riation or inflammation, and in many 
instances a limb might be applied within 
six weeks after the 
day of amputation, 
without any dan- 
ger of immediate 
or remote incon- 
venience to the 
wearer. 
When the knee 
joint is perfectly 
anchylosed, or im- 
movable, and the 
leg in a position 
at or near a right 
angle with the 
thigh, amputation 
should invariably 
be performed be- 
low the head of the 
tibia, if the condi- 
tion of the knee 
will allow it to 
serve as a 
basis of sup- 
This cut represents an external view of the leg for an amputation above 
the knee. 
This cut represents the knee-supporting artificial leg. 27 
port, but he should never operate through the knee joint, as noth- 
ing is gained by it, while much is lost, because the end of the 
femur will occupy a space which is needed for the construction of 
an artificial knee joint. True, an artificial knee joint has and can 
be made in this case, but not as durable and comely as when the 
condyles of the femur are removed. The size of the condyles 
makes the end of the stump too large, and the same objection 
arises as in Syme’s operation. 
If the femur is sawn through just above the condyles, the stump 
assumes a conical form, and the end of the bone no longer presents 
any obstacle to the construction of an artificial joint of the most 
modern improvement. Then, for amputation of the thigh, the 
point of election is just above the condyles of the femur (see point 
indicated on Thigh Cut No. 1). From this point upward the sur- 
geon should contest every inch with redoubled vigor, and the higher 
compelled to go, the greater the value of every inch of femur 
saved. 
CERTIFICATE FROM JAMES J. HARPER, WHOSE STUMP IS 
LESS THEN TWO INCHES LONG. 
Note.—It will be noticed that the certificates published by all 
artificial limb manufacturers, with a very few exceptions, are from 
those that have never tried any other kinds. I might publish a 
large volume of such, but as I claim superiority over all others 
now in use, I intend to prove it by written testimonials, [or in any 
other way that those wanting limbs may choose] from those that 
have tried the different kinds of patent limbs. 
My excuse for publishing the following is from the fact that Mr. 
Harper’s stump is extremely short, and that he was the first cus- 
tomer I had after I finished my term of service at the artificial 
limb business and commenced the business for myseli. J. A. F. 
Lisbon Centre, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., Dec. 7,1863. 
Mr. Jas. A. Foster: Bear Sir—I hardly know what to say 
about my artificial leg; I can wear it all the time and feel 
scarcely any pain. The trouble is all in the knee joint; I think 
the bolt is too near the back side of the leg, causing it to flex for- 
ward too easy. I have worn it every day I have been at home. 
I wore it to church last Sunday, and the folks thought I walked 
very well; but I have to be very careful of the knee or I hould 
get some hard falls. If it were not for the knee joints bothering 
me by flying out, I could walk five miles per day—as it is I can 
walk one mile. 
Yours respectfully, 
JAMES J. HARPER. 28 
Note.—The above is taken from a letter written a few days 
after he got his leg. He seems to think the knee is not quite 
right, and I think no one will wonder at it when they read his 
next letter and find that his stump is only one inch and seven- 
eighths in length from the hip joint. Nearly all, when learning to 
walk with an artificial knee, imagine there is something wrong 
with it. This is a natural consequence from the fact that a 
person with a thigh amputation always sits or stands with the 
stump inclined forward, thereby acquiring a habit of carrying 
it in that position, which has to be corrected when the limb is put 
on. They soon learn that the trouble is with themselves, and 
not the leg, by using it. J. A. F. 
Lisbon Centre, Sept. 26, 1864. 
Mr. Jas. A. Foster: Bear Sir—I am still wearing the artifi- 
cial limb you made me, and feel a satisfaction in saying that it 
more than meets my expectation for its lightness, adaptation, 
durability, anatomical beauty and naturalness of motion. 
For the benefit of those who have been as unfortunate as 
myself, I will give a short history of my case, which I believe 
has never had its parallel since the invention of artificial limbs. 
You have a perfect right to make use of it in any way you 
please, or refer to me at any time. 
Having had the misfortune to lose my leg close to the body 
—stump one inch and seven-eights long -and being very desirous 
to know if it were possible for me to wear an artificial limb, I 
wrote to Mr. Condell telling him my condition ; he considered 
my case so hopeless that he did not answer my letter. I then 
visited Dr. Bly of Rochester; he did not think I could wear 
one, but said if I would bandage my stump awhile and come 
again, he would tell me whether he could do anything for me 
or not. He had written to me of men wearing limbs with 
stumps as short as mine, but when I was there he had nothing 
to say of such cases, and told me it would be no credit to him 
or tome to make me a limb, as he considered my case hopeless. 
I went home thinking I should be forced to go upon crutches 
the remainder of my life, and think I should not have been so 
happily disappointed had I not accidentally met you at Pots- 
dam, walking perfectly well without the aid of a cane. I 
would not give you my measure at that time because I doubted 
your having made the limb you wore; but when I ascertained 
that such was the case, and that you were about going west to 
start business on your own account, I determined to have you 
try to set me walking. How well you succeeded you can judge 
when I tell you what I can do and have done. Iam a farmer, 
and the past season have hoed, mowed, pitched hay, and done 
many other kinds of work that is to be done on a farm. 29 
I am a commissioner of highways, and a few days since had 
occasion to survey a new road through woods a distance of 
three miles The weather was very warm, but I went through 
without trouble, and could have gone farther. I think any one 
wearing an artificial leg with an artificial knee will agree with 
me in saying it would be as easy to walk six miles on a good 
road. I think on a cool day on a good road I could walk eight 
miles without starting the skin. Everyone that has seen me 
use it has been astonished, and Dr. Brydges of Ogdensburg, 
who amputated my leg, considers it a miracle, and that I should 
be grateful to you as long as I live. In conclusion I would say 
that I consider myself qualified to recommend your limbs, and 
will be most happy to give any information in my power to 
any one who may wish it. I have never seen one who could 
walk better than you with an artificial knee, and feel justified 
in advising all who have lost limbs to go to you, from the fact 
that no person is so well qualified to fit a limb as he who wears 
one himself. 
Yours, respectfully, 
JAS. J. HARPER. 
Mr. Jas. A. Foster: Bear Sir—My leg is all right. I have 
worn it every day and failed to find any weak points in it. It 
would surprise you to see how well I can walk. I have done 
my own chores nearly all the winter, have drawn my own 
wood, and can do more work than I ever expected to be able 
to do. I am sorry you have moved so far away, as it will be so 
far to go if I should happen to break down. l)r. Brydge*, Dr. 
Furness and Dr. Crookshank of Ogdensburg, say that I am 
walking better than th**y ever thought any one could with so 
short a stump, and I am improving every day. 
Lisbon Centre, N. Y., Jan. 31, 1865. 
Truly yours, 
JAS. J. HARPER. 
Lisbon Centre, N. Y., Feb. 18th, 1870. 
Jas. A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa. 
Bear Sir—Yours of the 11th inst., asking if the leg had 
killed me, or if I had killed the leg, is received, and in reply 
would say that we are both living and doing well. I can walk 
better with the old leg than any person in the neighborhood 
that wears an artificial one, and must say that it has met my 
expectations and has done me more service than I ever expect- 
ed it would. 
Yours very respectfully, 
JAS. J. HARPER. After reading the foregoing letters, can any one doubt the 
ability ot a person to walk and do business with a good limb if 
he has as much stump as Mr. Harper. The reason so many 
persons do not wear limbs after being to the expense of getting 
them, is because they are not properly fitted. The advantage 
I possess over others in fitting is that I wear a full length limb 
myself, and ol course can tell how it should fit to work with 
ease and comfort. I often find persons who have purchased 
limbs, and after trying them a few months, lay them aside, con- 
cluding it impossible for them to wear one. All who have 
brought them to me w ith such complaints I have never failed 
to set walking. J. A. F: 
30 
TESTIMONY FROM THOSE THAT HAVE TESTED THE 
PALMER PATENT LEG. 
Youngstown, Ohio, March 8th, 1870. 
James A. Foster, Cincinnati, O. 
Dear Sir—Yours is received. In reply I must say I am well 
pleased with your leg. It is now a little more than a year since 
I commenced wearing it, and I think it is in just as good order 
now as when first received. I wore one of Palmer’s make about 
five years, and I must say it worked well, but there were some 
serious faults in it which are overcome in yours. I have not been 
able to find any fault with your leg as yet, and trust I shall not. 
Wishing you success, 
I am truly yours, 
GEO. J. WILLIAMS, 
Late of the 42d Ohio Vols. 
East Saginaw, Mich., April 20th, 1870. 
Mr. James A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa. 
Sir—Your letter of March 21st was duly received. In reply 
I would state, for your benefit as well as the unfortunate maimed, 
that the leg you made for me has provod satisfactory in every 
respect. I have used it constantly for over three years, and it has 
given me but little trouble. Prior to getting your make of leg, I 
wore the Palmer leg, but not with the satisfaction yours has given. 
I do cheerfully recommend your patent above all others I have 
seen in use. Please accept this short and hurried note. Hoping 
you may gain the confidence of all that are in need of artificial 
legs, I remain, 
Yours, &c., 
A. O. WOODRUFF. 
Late of the 5th U. S. Artillery. 31 
Brandon, Oakland Co., Mich., March 18th, 1870. 
Mr. James A. Foster, Detroit. 
Dear Sir—I take this opportunity to express my entire satis- 
faction with the artificial limb you made for me. I have worn it 
eighteen months now with perfect ease. The Palmer leg is no 
comparison to it, for I can do twice the work on this leg that you 
made than J.could on my Palmer leg. I work a farm, seventy- 
five acreB improved, and do all the work myself, excepting a few 
days in haying and harvesting. I can plow two acres per day, 
and have cradled three acres of heavy grains in one day. I have 
split out eleven hundred rails in three-and-a-half days, and can do 
all kinds of work on a farm, I would say to those who have been 
so unforfunate as to lose a limb, try the Foster patent, and you 
will be sure of an easy wearer and a durable limb. Beware of 
humbugs. 
Yours truly, 
JAMES VANKUREK. 
Rouse’s Point, N. Y., August 18, 1864. 
Jas A. Foster: Dear Sir—I promised to let you know how I 
liked my limb. I will tell you. I have worn Palmer’s eleven 
years, and also one of James Drake’s, and yours surpasses them 
both for lightness, durability and beauty. I have worked five 
months, ten hours per day, walking, as near as I can calculate, five 
miles each day. I would recommend all who have lost limbs to 
procure one of your make, and I think you will find plenty of 
business, without going West, as you talk of doing. I intend 
coming to Bee you the first of next month. 
Yours truly, 
THOS. J HAYES. 
from the same source : 
Rouse’s Point, N. Y., March 27, 1865. 
Mr. Foster : Dear Sir—My leg gives perfect satisfaction so 
far, and if I wished another I should certainly come to you. I have 
worn it about one year, and it shows no signs of failing as yet. 
Respectfully, «fcc., 
THOS. J. HAYES. 
Additional testimony from Mr. Hayes: 
Jas. A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa. 
Dear Sir—After wearing the artificial leg which you made 
for me in March, 1864, (before you went West,) constantly up to 
the present time, I am the more firmly convinced that you make 
the best. 
THOS. J. HAYES. 
Rouse’s Point, N. Y., March 14th, 1870. 32 
Detroit, Mich., August 2, 1870. 
Jas. A. Foster: Sir—As you are about revising your pam- 
phlet, giving a description of your Patent Union Artificial Limbs, 
and publishing certificates from those that have tried the different 
kinds, permit me to offer you my assistance, hoping thereby that 
my testimony may be instrumental in helping some unfortunate 
soldier (like myself) as certificates published from other unfortu- 
nates did in influencing me to try an artificial leg of your make. 
Mv case is as follows : I lost my leg while serving ray country 
in 1864. The amputation was performed just below the knee, and 
as the joint is not flexible, I have to wear what is called a knee- 
bearing leg, which I got from Dr. B. Frank Palmer, LL. D., in 
July, 1865, and used it until April, 1868, when I laid it aside 
(completely used up) for one of your Patent Union Legs, and after 
using it with perfect satisfaction until the present time, I am free 
to say to him [Palmer] and you, or any one else, that I much pre- 
fer the one you made, for several reasons,viz: it is easier to wear, 
lighter, more durable, and I am not annoyed with the rattling, 
clanking noise in the knee joint so often heard in common artificial 
legs made for this kind of amputation. Hoping that others who 
apply to you for relief will meet with the same success that I have 
I am very respectfully your obed’t serv’t, 
WM. P. STEVENS. 
Late of the 184th N. Y. Vols. 
Detroit, Mich., October 10th, 1866., 
Jas. A. Foster: Dear Sir—In sending you this I feel as if I 
were only fulfilling a duty I owe you and others who have been as 
unfortunate as myself. You will recollect I lost one of my legs in 
the army. I saw your Patent Union Artificial limb before I pro- 
cured one, and liked it very much, but as you had no government 
contraot at that time, I was obliged to go east to use my govern- 
ment order. I procured one of Palmer’s, supposing it to be the 
best furnished, but it was not worth the money I used to pay travel- 
ing expenses going after it. After using it about three months, I 
became so dissatisfied with it that I ordered one of you, which 
I have worn ever since, and in fact my Palmer leg is so broken 
that I could not use it if I wished until it has been back to the 
manufacturer for repairs. I have worn the one you made me about 
a year, and have had no repairs on it, and have found no weak 
places in it as yet. You are at liberty to use this if you see fit, 
and I shall advise all who have need of an artificial limb to try 
one of yours as I know it to be a superior article. 
Yours truly, 
JOHN" FREDERICK. 
Formerly of the 2d Mioh. Vols. 33 
Flint, Mich., Dec. Oth, 1866. 
Jas A. Foster: Bear Sir—I received my artificial leg yester- 
day all right. I think it is very nice; it is a much better shape 
than I thought you could make it, on account of the stump being 
so long. I wore it all dayyesterday, and it felt quite comfortable. 
I can walk so much easier with it than I could with the old one 
(made by Palmer) that I almost feel as though I had my natural 
leg. I will write you again in a few days after I see how I can 
work with it, but I think I will be able to do about as much work 
as ever. 
Later [the 20th]—My artificial leg works finely. 
Yours respectfully, 
JOHN H. CAREY. 
Louisville, Ky., June 10, 1870. 
Mr. Jas. A. Foster, Cincinnati, Ohio. 
Dear Sir—Yours inquiring how I like the artificial leg you 
made for me, is received, and in reply I would say that it fully 
meets my expectations. You are aware that I have had some ex- 
perience in artificial limbs before purchasing one from you. I 
have worn out one made by B. Frank Palmer, consequently I 
think I am qualified to judge a good article, and I have no 
hesitency in pronouncing yours the superior. 
From your obd’t serv’t, 
W. E. APPLEGATE. 
Jambs A. Foster: Dear Sir—For the benefit of those unfortu- 
nates as myself, I wish to say, that since about the first of May 
last I have been wearing one of your full length artificial legs. For 
nearly five years. Preceding that time I had worn a Palmer leg, 
which served me well and deserves commendation, and it was with 
great reluctance, and not until I had made a rigid examination of 
your leg that I concluded to give it a trial. I would not now ex- 
change for the price of a leg. Your method of adjusting the knee 
joint is alone worth the price of a Palmer leg, and besides this it 
is superior in the following respects: 
1st. It is so simple in its construction that it cannot often get out 
of repair, and when it does the wearer can without difficulty g et 
at any part of it and make good any ordinary defect, or stop any 
noise with his own hands. 
2d. By the rod and nut at the knee, you put the weight of the 
lower part of the leg much nearer the body, and thereby enables 
the wearer to use a strong, substantial leg with ease and walk with 
rapidity. 
3d. The knee joint never flies from under me and lets me 
down when I am bearing my weight upon it. 
And lastly, I wish to say, that the care and diligence on your 34 
part in making your limbs of utility and comfort to the wearer, 
are worthy the consideration of every one who has been so unfor- 
tunate as to need such service. 
Very respectfully your obedient serv’t, 
CHAS. S. MORTON. 
Cassopolis, Mich., Aug, 3d, 1870. 
A BLY LEG REMODLED AFTER TESTING ONE <>F MY 
PATENT UNION. 
Jas. A. Foster, Esq.: Dear Sir—I had my attention called to 
your artificial leg in 1864, and after a careful examination I 
ordered one as an experiment. When completed I found it supe- 
rior to any I had seen. For strength, simplicity in construction, 
and lightness, it is a superior article. I have been wearing the 
leg for about five years and it has given me entire satisfaction. 
I wore one of Dr. Douglass Bly’s artificial legs, known as the 
celebrated Ball and Socket Joint Leg, when I first got yours, and 
as you are aware I had that altered into your style of leg. 
I have seen a number of artificial legs of different manufacture, 
but none to compare with yours for all practical purposes. 
Very respectfully. 
MARK FLANIGAN. 
Detroit, Mich., March 18,1870. 
Late Col. 24th Mich. Vol., and at present U. S. Internal 
Revenue Assessor. 
Note.—It will seen by the above that Col, Flanigan first got 
one of those highly extolled artificial legs with the universal side 
motion ankle joint, then procured one of my Patent Union Legs, 
and after testing them both, he had the foot and ankle taken off 
the Bly leg and one of my patent applied. 
J. A. F. 
Certificates from some of those that have tried Dr. Douglass Bly s differ- 
ent Patent Artificial Legs before buying one from me. 
Detroit, Mich., Dec. 10, 1866. 
Mr. James A. Foster: Dear Sir—The limb you manufactured 
for me works admirably, and thus far has more than equalled my 
expectations. At the time I applied to you for a leg I had very 
little hope of getting one that I could wear with any comfort or 
feeling of security, I had been wearing one of the celebrated ball 
and socket inventions called artificial limbs, manufactured by Dr. 
Bly, until my patience was nearly worn out and the leg completely 
used up. It required about eighteen month’s to accomplish this. 
During that time I had to send the leg to Rochester for repairs 
twioe, besides having a new set of cords and springs which I put in 35 
myself. I have examined several other kinds of artificial limbs, 
and I have no hesitancy in saying that it is my opinion that the 
Foster leg is superior to any I have yet seen. 
Yours truly, 
JAMES R. DUTTON. 
Later. 
James A. Foster: Sir—After wearing the artificial leg con- 
stantly until the present time, I have nothing to retract from what 
I have before stated, but on the contrary I am more convinced 
than ever of its superiority. 
JAMES R. DUTTON. 
July 25 th, 1870. 
Portsmouth, Va., April 15th, 1870. 
Mr. Jas. A. Foster : Dear Sir—I write to you particularly to 
express the gratitude I feel towards one who has set me on my 
pins. I have worn the leg which you made for me constantly since 
1 received it, and like it better every day. 
I have no trouble with it like I had with my old Bly leg, which 
I tried for nearly two years, but never had it to work to my satis- 
faction for a single day. I do not want any more of the “ ana- 
tomical ball and socket,” and take occasion here to say that I gave 
it a long trial and finally threw it away in disgust. You are at 
liberty to publish this if you like, and I hope, sir, it may be the 
means of benefiting one more unfortunate. 
With many wishes for your future prosperity, I have the honor 
to be 
Yours truly, 
J. THOMPSON BAIRD. 
Formerly 1st Lieut. 16th Va. Infantry, Mahone’s old brigade. 
Cincinnati, Ohio, March 26, 1870. 
J ames A. Foster, Esq.: Sir—You wish an expression from me 
as to whether l am satisfied with the limb you made me. I have 
worn your leg one yehr and six months, and am perfectly satisfied 
that it is the best artificial limb manufactured. In so far as the 
Bly limb is concerned, I can speak from experience, having wore 
one of their manufacture four years, and if I should need a limb 
to morrow, and they were to ofier me one for nothing, and yours 
were offered at the usual price, I would pay the difference, and in 
five years I believe I should have saved money by the choice, for 
by that time their limb would have cost me as much as the original 
cost of yours for repairs, and would be completely worn out, while 
yours would be in pretty fair condition, and in the meantime 
would have cost a mere trifle for repairs. The Bly limb is more 36 
clumsy and complicated in its construction, consequently more 
trouble for the wearer to take apart when it Peeds repairs; 
But it is not necessary for me to dwell on the relative merits of 
yours or the Bly Limb, but you may send to me for information 
any who may come to Cincinnati and I will try to explain to them 
its merits. 
The lateral or side motion of Bly’s limb is not of the slightest 
advantage; rather a disadvantage in slippery weather. 
GEORGE H, PEET. 
Clerk in Cincinnati Post Office, formerly of the 5th Ohio Vols- 
Ailsa Craig, C. W., February 6, 1868. 
Jas. A. Foster. Detroit, Mich. 
Dear Sir: Doctor Bly’s superintendent in his artificial limb 
manufactory at Chicago, 111., wanted I should write him a piece 
for publication, stating how I like his artificial legs, and I have 
concluded to comply with hia request; and as I have one of your 
manufacture, I thought I would send it to you and let you publish 
it too, hoping you will send Mr. Gardner a copy of it, as I do not 
wish to show any partiality to either manufacturer. 
JOSEPH STOREHOUSE. 
The following letter is the recommendation that Mr. Gardner 
asked for: 
Ailsa Craig, C. W-, February 6, 1868. 
To Mr. John Gardner, Superintendent of Dr. Bly’s Artificial 
Limb Manufactory, Chicage, 111. 
Dear Sir: As you requested me to write, stating how I liked 
the artificial legs you made for me, I will do so. 
The first one you made for me was the celebrated Ball and 
Socket Leg, with side motion at the ankle, which I used about 
fourteen months and laid it aside completely used up. I then 
bought one of your Army and Navy Legs, which I tried to use 
(with poor success) for three months, and then laid it aside for one 
of taster's Patent Union Artificial Legs, which I have now been 
using every day with success for the last sixteen months, which is 
all right now, and looks fair to be so for some time to come. In 
conclusion I wonld say, it Foster’s leg proves ih the future what it 
has in the past, I shall not want any more ol your Ball and Socket, 
Universal and Side-motion legs. 
Yours very respectfully, 
JOSEPH STOREHOUSE. 
Additional testimony from Joseph Stonehouse. 
Jas. A. Foster: Sir—I have worn the artificial leg that you 
made for me ever since I got it with gratifying success, and have 37 
got more service and have taken more comfort with it than I 
could with half a dozen such as Dr. Bly’s workmen made for me. 
JOSEPH STONEHOUSE. 
Formerly of the 7th Wisconsin Vols. 
Duncrief, Province of Ontario, July 18th, 1870. 
Detroit, March 14th, 1870. 
J. A. Foster, Esq., Philadelphia, Pa. 
Dear Sir : After having used the artificial limb, procured of 
you, for nearly two years, I Would say that thus far it has proved 
very satisfactory, and has even more than met my expectations, 
notwithstanding I had taken some pains to examine various other 
patents, and felt thoroughly convinced that yours was an improve- 
ment on all others I had seen. The Bly limb I formerly used was 
much heavier and far less durable. Having been personally ac- 
quainted with you for a long time, and feeling confident of your 
integrity, I shall take pleasure in recommending your work to all. 
A. H. CHAMBERLAIN, 
Late of the 8th Mich. Yols. 
Columbus, Ohio; March, 1870. 
Mr. James A. Foster: Dear Sir—Yours of February 26th 
was received yesterday. In reply permit me to say that I 
not the least objection to your publishing a certificate from me. I 
will most cheerfully, on all occasions, give your limb the very best 
praise, for I honestly believe it to be the best leg made at this 
time. My experience with Bly’s leg compels me to say that I 
would not have another if I could get it for a present. These are 
my honest sentiments; others may think differently. The Bly 
leg was to me an instrument of refined torture, not to speak of 
the endless expense. The leg which I got from you last summer, 
I have worn constantly since the day I first received it, and I must 
say that it has given as much satisfaction as anything artificial 
can. Hoping that success may attend your efforts, I remain, 
Yours respectfully, 
M. A. LILLEY, 
Late of the 46th Ohio Vols. 
Dayton, Ohio, March 29, 1860. 
James A. Foster: Dear Sir—Yours of the 25th is at hand. 
You wish to know how I like the artificial leg you made for me. 
I will say that I am perfectly satisfied with it in every respect. 
You are aware that I wore one of Dr. Bly’s Patent Universal Side- 
motion Leg before I purchased one of yours. It was continually 
getting out of order during the time I wore it, and was a great 
source of annoyance as well as expense. I would advise all in 38 
need of artificial limbs to get the Foster leg I have seen almost 
every other manufacturer’s leg in use, and believe yours to be the 
best and most substantial and least apt to get out of order. 
Yours most respectfully, 
A. KNECHT, Jr. 
Market Master. 
Detroit. Mich., Feb. 10, 1868. 
James Foster -Dear Sir: For the benefit of yourself and those 
who are so unfortunate as to be compelled to wear an artificial 
leg, I will give you a little of my experience in artificial limbs, 
which you are at liberty to publish or make use of in any way 
you free fit, or refer to me at any time. 
While serving my country I was wounded so that it became 
necessary to amputate my leg above the knee. I purchased one 
of Dr. Bly’s celebrated Ball and Socket Anatomical artificial 
legs (which I supposed to be the best at the time), which I used 
for some three years. I had to overhaul it about once a week 
to keep it in running order. After witnessing the success of 
your artificial limbs (for almost three years,) which you applied 
to yourself and others, I thought best to try one of yours, and I 
am free to say that I do not regret it. The leg you manufacture 
is lighter, less complicated, less likely to get out of repair, more 
beautiful,Jeasier to wear and the movement is more like nature’s 
own work. The improvement you have over all others in the 
knee joint is a decided success. 
E. F. SHEPHERD, 66 Washington Avenue. 
J. A. FOSTER—Dear Sir: I have worn one ofyour legs 
one year without its being once out of order or needing repairs. 
I am a machinist by occupation, and run the largest lathe in the 
Detroit & Milwaukee R. R. machine shop without difficulty. 
Previous to getting a limb from you I wore one ofDr. Bly(s ball 
and socket legs for five years, "which got out of order so often 
that it cost me more for repairs during that time than I paid for 
it new, whereas wdth yours it is quite the contrary, it being as 
good as the day 1 purchased it, and for comfort, naturalness of 
movement and beauty of finish, it cannot be surpassed. 
I examined many kinds of legs before purchasing of you and 
have arrived at the conclusion that you make the best that can 
be procured on this continent. 
Yours respectfully, 
HENRY MERDIAN. 
TESTIMONY FROM THOSE THAT HAVE TRIED THE SALEM 
LEG. 
Lansing, Mich., March 2, 1870. 
J. A. Foster : 
Dear Sir—Your letter asking me whether I could concientlously re- 
commend the artificial limb you made me nearly two years ago, is at 39 
haud. In reply ! am most happy to say that it has proved satisfactory 
in every respect, particularly the knee and ankle joints where my 
other (the Salem leg) proved an utter failure. I don’t wish to expatiate 
upon your limb 'but wThat I wish to say is this: I have carefully exam- 
ined those of otner manufacturers, and I believe, not only from what 
1 have seen of them, but by experience, yours to, be the best limb 
manufactured. Wishing you success, 
I remain yours, &c., 
FRANK M. HOWE, 
Late of the 20th Mich. Vols 
Salt Lake City, May 13th, 1870, 
Jas. A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa.: Sir—I take pleasure in stating 
that the artificial leg you made for me last winter is in every way satis- 
factory. I presume I am more pleased with it because of having worn 
for four years a Salem leg. This one is much better, and I think after 
minute examination of the work of mist of the prominent manufac- 
turers, and considerable experience in the matter of artificial legs, that 
those made by yon are more perfect and easier to wear than any made 
in this country.' 
GEO. R MAXWELL, 
Late Lt. Col. and Brevet Brig. Gen. 1st Mich, Cavalry. 
DOUBLE AMPUTATION ON GENTLEMEN. 
Bay City, Mich., February 5, 1868. 
Jas. A. Foster; Sir—In relation to your inquiry how I get along 
with the pair of artificial legs which you applied to me a year ago, 1 
am happy to inform you that they are a success beyond my hopeful ex- 
pectation. I can now chop, saw and split wood, and do many kinds of 
out-door labor. I can walk out two miles from home and back with 
ease. I never anticipated that I could accomplish what I can Vith a 
pair of artificial limbs. I can now walk about in a crowd of people, 
and no one woukl mistrust that I walk on a pair of artificial legs. 
* Yours, &c„ FREDERICK STOCKLE. 
Please read what the Advertiser .& Tribune said December 15th, 
1868, about Mr. Stockle’s case, which is published in another part of 
this pamphlet among other notices of the Press. 
Niles, Mich., March 20, 1870. 
Jas. A. Foster : Sir—In reply to your inquiries as to how I, like the 
pair of artiticial legs which you made for me, I am happy to be ab)e to 
inform you that they meet my expectations; and I can get about on 
them much better than I ever expected to when I first put them on. 
You are aware that I losr my1 legs by a railroad accident; at Chicago, 
and both legs were amputated very close to the knee joints ; stumps 
are both less than three inches long. My occupation being a drover, 
it becomes necessary for me to travel a great deal by railroad both 
night and day, which I can do without any trouble. When I lost my 
limbs 1 took considerable pains to ascertain where I cbuld get the best 
substitutes, regardless of the«cost. and after examining the different 
kinds, and seemg and talking with.those that had tried other liinbs 
and afterwards bought.one of you, I decided to try your patent, and 
after testing them for over two years and becoming more thoroughly 
acquainted with the different kinds, I rhust say! have no reason to re- 
gret my choice. Wishing you success, I am 
Very respectfully your obd’t serv’t, 
A. H. HEATH. 40 
AS HE IS. 
as he was. 
Detroit, Mich., December 10t.h, 1866 
Jas. A. Foster : Dear Sir—It ia with profound sentiments of grati- 
tude and thankfulness that I now beg leave to give you my experience 
thus far with the two artifleiai legs which you applied to me. For the 
benefit of those that may have the misfortune to have both feet ampu- 
tated, and have any doubts about being able to wear two artifleiai legs, 
I will state my case. 
On the night of the 9th of December, 1863,1 froze my hands and 
feet. On the 25th of the same month it became necessary to have both 
feet amputated, and eight days after both hands. My case has always 
been considered a hopeless one, for 1 had no hands to carry a cane in 
learning to walk ; but your encouragements inspired me with hope, and 
all I have to regret is that I did not get thi m sooner. Thus far in 
using them they have far exceeded my expectations, for the first time I 
put them on I walked and decended a flight of stairs without difficulty. 
The result Is a complete triumph. No one can sufficiently esteem the 
importance of a pair of artificial legs to mankind save those whom 
misfortune compels to wear them. 
Yours respectfully, 
F. G. RAND. 
Since the above was written, Mr. Rand has removed to St. Albans, 
Vermont. 41 
Mikey Hogan only 11 years of age. Brought to me by Dr. 
Fred. L. Matthews, of Carlinsville, 111. 
AS HE IS. 
AS HE WAS. 
Mikey Hogan had the misfortune to have his legs hurt by a 
mowing machine, so that amputation of both became a neces- 
sity, which was performed by Dr. F. L. Matthews, of Carlins- 
ville Macoupin Co., 111. (July 15th, 1870) After Mikey’s stumps 
were well, the Doctor assisted him in ascertaining where he could 
get the best substitutes for those lost, and after due deliberation 
decided to buy my Patent Union Artificial Limbs, and how 
well they are pleased with their choice will be seen by the follow- 
ing extracts taken from letters wrote to me by the Doctor, since 
the boy commenced to wear the limbs, which were sent to him 
March 24th 1871, only eight months after amputation. 
Jas. A. Foster : Dear Sir—“ They (meaning the artificial limbs) 
astonished every one, are far better than I thought. They are a 
perfect success. What kind of a recommendation do you want? 
I can concientiously give one with as many signatures as you 
desire. Yours Truly, 
FRED. L. MATTHEWS, M. D.” 
Carlinsville, 111., June 2d, 1871. 
James A. Foster: Dear Sir—“The limbs are positively the 
finest I ever saw. Why the, Boy (Mikey Hogan) can run on them 42 
and that too after having them hut a few weks. All are more 
than pleased with them. 
You may make a recommend and use my name just as strong 
as words can make it, and state that I am ready to answer all 
inquiries if stamps are inclosed to pay return postage. I would 
write one now hut am in a hurry,. No one would suspect to see 
Mikey on the street that such was the matter with his feet, a 
tight boot is all that any one would mistrust. 
Yours Truly, 
F. L. MATTHEWS, M. 1).” 
The above quotations from Dr. Matthews letters are as strong 
a recommendation as any one need to have without adding one 
word. It should be borne in mind that it is not courteous to 
neglect to inclose stamps to pay return postage when making 
inquires about any thing of disinterested parties, for if they are 
to the trouble of answering, when they never expect any remun- 
eration, that is all that should be reasonably expected without 
paying postage. 
JAMES A. FOSTER. 
As He Used to Walk. 
On the 89th Page will be found a letter|frora Mr. a. H Heath (wrote 
in Mareh 1870), in which he speaks of the utility of the Aktificial 
Limbs, and he now (January 1872) says the longer he wears'them the 
better and more useful he finds them. JAMES A. FOSTER. 
A. Hi HEA.TH, NILES, MICH. 
As He Is. 
As he hacl to Sit’inj 
his Chair. 43 
V. S. Parmlee, Esq., of Imlay City, Mich 
AS HE IS 
AS HE WAS. 
Imlay City, Mich., August 1st, 1871. 
Jar. A. Fostkb, Detroit, Mich.: /fear Sir—In obedience to an obligation I owe to 
you, and humanity at large, I avail myself of this opportunity to give to the suffering 
humanity a statement bf the causes that led to my misfortune, and the remedy I 
received at your hands In the Spring of 1867 (May 14th) my right leg was broken at the 
ankle joint so badly that nature could not heal the broken bones (caused by jumping 
from a buggy when the horse was running with great violence). Ten and a half weeks 
from that time amputation became necessary, which was performed four inches below 
patella (knee-pan)), with great skill, by Drs. O. P. Strobridge and Stone. In the month 
of March, 1868,1 procured one of your Patent Union Artificial Limbs, and I only left 
it off one day after receiving it. I attended personally to my business until the 29th day 
of June, 1870, when by another accident, of a similar kind to the one above alluded to, 
I lost the other leg, which was amputated about six inches below the patelia (knee-pan). 
Tha 29th day of September 1870 (just three months after amputation), I put on another 
of your Patent Artificial Limbs, now having a pair (and, by the way, who would not 
have a pair when they can have just as well as not?), since which time I have attended 
to the affairs of my farm and built a store at Imlay City, Mich., stocked it up, and am 
certain when I say that I have sold more agricultural implements and machine* than 
any one dealer in this part of the country, besides attending to the affairs of my farm. 
I can walk fully as well with my artificial limbs as I could when I had but one. Some 
may think I am making light of my misfortune, but suffice it to say that it is not so 
great when one can get a pair of your Patbnt Artificial Limbs You are at liberty 
io publish this whenever you please. 
Yours truly, 
V. 8. PARMLEE. 44 
Jeff. Waterworth, Fort Gratiot. Mich, only 19 years of age 
AS HE IS. 
AS HE WAS. 
It will be seen by the above cuts that one of Mr. Water- 
worths’ amputations, is what is called Choparts operation, at this 
time of writing (November 1871) it is not healed sufficiently 
sound to admit of an artificial limb, hut as he had to get about 
on his knees, he has a temporary apparatus for this stump and 
an artificial leg for the other, and he gets about very well; he says 
much better than he expected he could. Mr. Waterworth has 
been a telegraph operator at Fort Gratiot, Mich., but is to be 
sent to some other point soon, but as yet I do not know where 
it will be. JAMES A. FOSTER. 
Reading, Pa., December 7th, 1871. 
Mb. James A. Fosteb : Dear Sir—1 am happy to say the Artificial Legs I had made 
in Philadelphia at your office are doing me very good service. I had an idea as I had to 
use a pair of Artificial Legs I would have to use erutchcs to walk, but to my surprise 
and pleasure 1 did not have to use a since I used the feet. Mr. Potts, your fore- 
man, fitted them, and did it so accurate that they have not given meflive minutes’ pain 
since I used them. 
I get about comfortable with a cane, and oftonrwalk more than a square without 
using it. 
Very respectfully yours, &c., 
JAMES L. HUEY, 
Sterling, Whiteside Co., 111. 
It will be seen by the heading ot this letter that it was 
wrote at Reading Pa.; as MrHuey had not been home since he 
got his limbs at Philadelphia, and has been wearing them but a 
short time, but he finds them to he a perfect success. 45 
TESTIMONY FROM ONE THAT ,HAS TRIED BOTH THE 
PALMER AND THE BLY PATENTS. 
Detroit, Mich., March 24, 1870 
Jas. A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa. 
Dear Sir: The first limb I had was the “ Palmer,” furnished 
by the government. I •will not detail its merits or demerits, but 
supply say that it was better than a peck on the head with a 
sharp stone. I wore it (off and on) about eighteen months. The 
next was the celebrated “ Bly” limb, which I purchased at great 
expense, the total cost being about $300, including expenses. In 
this invention I fondly hoped to find a perfect substitute for my 
lost member; indeed so glowing were the accounts given by the 
manufacturer of what had been accomplished by the wearers of 
this marvelous contrivance, I had some expectation that it was 
going to surpass in usefulness the batural limb, but the sequel 
was by no means satisfactory. I draged it about for some six 
months, when I was compelled to abandon it for the “ Palmer”— 
the only satisfaction derived from it being that experienced at 
witnessing the delight of a small boy to whom I gave the glass 
marble which constituted the ankle joint. 
I was much annoyed at the imperfections of the “ Palmer limb,” 
the rattling of the joints and the constant attention required to 
keep it in repair being exceedingly unpleasant, besides the knee 
spring was constantly breaking, incurring expense and inconve- 
nience. I had at this time lost all confidence in the article of 
wooden legs, and about made up my mind to have no more to do 
with them, and the examination of yours at first tended to confirm 
me in my determination. But so favorable were the reports that 
I had from persons wearing your limb that I finally thought I 
would make one more trial. I have now worn your limb nearly 
three years, and although I think it not faultless, yet I deem it in- 
comparably better than either of the others I have had. Since I 
purchased my leg I see you have made some very great improve- 
ments which I think render your leg beyond any comparison the 
best made in this country. The superiority of the knee joint alone 
places the limb at the head of the list. ' 
Very respectfully your obd’t serv’t, J. W. McMILLAN, 
Late of the 24th Mich. Vols’ 
TESTIMONY FROM ONE THAT HAS TRIED THE SELPHO 
LEG. 
Northville, Mich., March 2,1870. 
Jas. A. Foster, Esq.—-Dear Sir; I received yours to-day, and in 
reply I would state that I have worn Selpho’s leg and Foster’s. 
If I could not get another of Foster’s I would rather gd on crutches 
than wear any other leg I have ever seen. J cannot recommend 
it too highly to my fellow soldiers who are in need of a leg. 
I remain very respectfully yours, &c., 
W. H. BOURNES. 46 
THE CONTRAST IN EACH DAY’S MAIL. * 
I would say, by way of introduction and explanation to the follow- 
ing three letters, (which are published without the consent and know- 
ledge of their authors,) that they are only samples of what I am con- 
stantly receiving, and as the two last came from one State, mailed on 
the same day, arriving by the same mail, and the lirst one only a few 
days in advance, and all three having first tried one kind of a leg. 
makes the contrast the more impressive. 
The first two needs no explanation, as they speak plainly for them- 
selves ; but in regard to Mr. Stevenson’s letter, I would remark that he 
is1 one of the many that got an artificial leg (in July, 1866) with that 
highly self-extolled Universal Ankle Joint, made under the supervision 
of the Professor who claims to make artificial legs purely anatomical 
(not mechanical), and after a few unsuccessiul attempts to wear it. 
which hurt his stump so much that he finally laid it aside for his 
crutches, thinking he could not wear an artificial leg, but after witness- 
ing the successful operation of a leg I made for a man in the same 
neighborhood for about three years, concluded to make another effort 
and brought his leg to my office in Cincinnati, in the fall of 1869, and 
paid about thirty dollars to have it altered by a mechanic (not an 
anatomist)1 so he could wear it, which lasted him until he got a new 
one from me, in July, 1870, and this is the first letter written to me 
in regard to it. His amputation being just above the knee and so close 
to the joint that it was rather difficult to put my improvements in the 
knee, and he advised me to let it go, saying that if the rest of the limb 
was good he could get along with the old fashioned knee joint, but I 
insisted that it could and should be put in, and this letter explains how 
he appreciates it. J. A. F. 
Big Rapids, Micb., July -20tb, 1870. 
•1amKg A. Fostkr, Ksq., Detroit. 
Dear Bir—Yours accompanied by circular is received. In reply I enclose the blank you 
gent me all tilled according to the beat of my knowledge and understanding ot it. 
You will observe that 1 am not at all complimentary to Bly or his leg, and I assure 
yon I do not feel so much. He gent me one of the blank applications you speak. I 
returned it with the following as my filling : “ Will you walk into my parlor said the 
spider to the fly.” “I have tried one of Bly’s excuses for a leg, and don’t want any more." 
Boon I received a long sweet letter begging me to let him try once more. But never. 
Yours truly, V. W. BRACE, 
I .ate of the I7th Mich. Vols. 
Wanatah, Ind., July 31st, 1870. 
James A. Foster—Dear Sir: At different times I have received your descriptive 
circulars, and, until quite recently, had given up all thought of trying any more artificial 
legs. I lost $130 in a Bly leg, and 11 did me no good whatever—was a curse to me from 
the first time I attempted .to wear it. I am not in circumstances to throw away money 
in that way. 
G. P. LONG. 
Late of the 4th Ind. Artillery. 
Aurora, Ind., August 1st, 1870. 
Ja». A. Foster—Dear Sir : I am in receipt of your letter of the 30th ult; I have no 
language to express my satisfaction with my new It'g; it is a complete success. Lam so 
glad you insisted on having the knee fastner (meaning my Patent Knee Joint Regulator) 
put in I believe I could walk four miles with comparative easel Strangers would never 
know 1 had lest a limb by my walk. 
I may write you agin on this subject 
Yours in haste, 
G. V. STEVENSON, 
I .ate of the 7th Ind. Vols., at present U. 8. Internal Revenue Collector. 
TESTIMONY FROM THOSE THAT HAVE TRIED A MARKS’ 
LEG. 
Ravenna, Mich., June 20th, 1870. 
Mr. Jas. A. Foster—Dear Sir: You inform me that you are about 
to publish a list of testimonials in regard to your Patent Union Artifi- 
cial Limbs, and "now let me say that it is with the greatest pleasure 47 
that I accept your invitation to bear witness of what I consider the 
best invention in the line of artificial limbs. It is now nealy five years 
since l purchased one of your Patent Union Artificial Limbs, and dar- 
ing this time I have tested its strength and durability quite thoroughly, 
and have found It to give good satisfaction in all cases. I have tried 
and have not found it wanting. But duripg all this time I have been 
observing all the different patents of artificial limbs, I have not found 
a leg that I like so well as I do your patent. In the Fall of 1867 I got 
an artificial limb from A. A. Marks of New York, with one of his 
Patent India Rubber Feet. I got it of him on government account, as 
you had no government contract at that time. I don’t like it for these 
reasons: 1st. It is two-aud-a-half pounds heavier than yours. 2d. It 
has a stiff aukle joint, which makes it a great deal easier for me to 
stumble and fall down than when I wear yours. 3d. It gets out 
of repair at the knee joint easier than yours does at any part of it. 
4th. It does not fit me as well as yours does, and on this account 1 do 
not wear it. 1 find, too, in reading over some of A. A. Marks’ testi- 
monials, they never speak of the disagreeable noise that it makes in 
the knee joint, and that is where I find the most noise comes 
from. 1 can say yours does not make any noise at the ankle joint or at 
the knee. 
My sister, Mary .Jane Price, wears one of your make of artificial 
limbs, and she says she is well pleased with it and endorses all that I 
have said about your artificial limbs. She has worn hers nearly three 
years, and it is in very good condition yet. I would advise any one 
who is in need of an artificial limb to examine yours before purchasing 
one anywhere else. Yours respectfully, 
ALEX. HANNA. 
CERTIFICATE FROM ONE WHO HAS TRIED A CONDELL LEG. 
North Stockholm, N. Y., Jan. 16, 1865. 
Jas. A. Foster: Sir—The leg you made for me suits me well. I am 
so much attached to it that I have laid my other leg, that I got from 
Mr. Condell, entirely aside. I can walk and work with this with per- 
fect ease, and would recommend your limbs, to all who need such, as 
the lightest, most substantial, and in all respects the best I have ever 
seen. Yours respectfully, 
WASHINGTON ADAMS. 
Later from Mr. Adams. 
North Stockholm, N. Y., Feb. 28, 1870. 
This is to certify that 1 have worn an artificial limb, with the lower 
amputation, manufactured by James A. Foster, over five years. I can 
truly say that it has given me perfect satisfaction, and I have no reason 
to doubt but that it will hold out for a number of years longer. Be- 
ing a cripple for some time, I have had a chance of trying other manu- 
factories of artificial limbs with but little satisfaction. 
WASHINGTON ADAMS. 
CERTIFICATE FROM ONE THAT HAS TRIED THREE DIF- 
FERENT LEGS. 
West Stockholm, N. Y., Oct. 12, 1864. 
Jas. A. Poster : Dear Sir—The leg you made for me is the fourth 1 
have had, and 1 consider it much better than any 1 have tried before. 
I tend saw mill and get as much wages as those with two good legs, 
and I challenge the State to produce a man who will ontdo me in like 
circumstances. 1 can carry two bushels of wheat up stairs, placing 
the false foot forward alternately, and step upon a platform 2% feet 48 
high with perfect ease. I hunt, ilsh, run, scuffle and jump—have worn 
your leg six months, trying it thoroughly, and, in conclusion, will say 
I consider yours the best artificial limb manufactured in the United 
States. Yours truly, 
I. F. FOLSOM. 
Additional testimony from I. F. Folsom. 
December 26, 1864. 
Mr. Foster—Sir: My leg works first rate. I work on it all the 
time, boarding one-half mile from the mill, which I travel at present 
through snow one foot in depth. I am sawing shingles, and I do not 
believe there is a leg made that will do better service. If there is, I 
would go twenty miles to see and test it. You know that the proof of 
the pudding is in eating it, and in an artificial leg by wearing it. 
Yours, &c., 
I. F. FOLSOM. 
Still later evidence from the same source. 
January 14, 1865. 
Mr. Foster—Dear Sir: I sawed live and one-half thousands of cedar 
shingles yesterday and walked one mile, besides going a visiting in 
the evening and having a good time generally. 
Yours, &c., 
I. F. FOLSOM. 
Since the foregoing were written, Mr. Folsom went West, so I am 
unable to give his present address. J. A. F. 
TESTIMONY FROM THOSE THAT HAVE TRIED THE JEWETT 
LEG. 
Detroit, Mich., August 2d, 1870. 
Jas. A. Foster, 
Sir;—Just hearing that you are now publishing a 
revised edition of your descriptive pamphlet containing certificates 
from those that have tested the different kinds of patent artificial 
legs, I hasten to send you this short note to publish if you see fit. 
I lost my leg while serving in the late war, as many a brave 
soldier did, both north and south. I found it rather inconvenient 
to part with it although I do not consider it anything disgraceful. 
I procured an artificial leg made by the Jewett Patent Leg Co., 
which I wore about a year before it failed; after that it annoyed 
me very much in wanting repairs, for three years, when I discard- 
ed it for one of your patent, and I must say that I am now 
well pleased with the change, and as I have worn it long enough 
to thoroughly test it, I trust I shall never regret it. Hoping this 
may be the cause of some unfortunate getting a good artificial leg, 
I am very respectfully your obd’t serv’t, 
OLIVER LUMPHREY 
2d Lt. U. S. Army. 
Aurora, Ind., March 8th., 1870. 
Mr. Jas. A. Foster: 
My Bear Sir—I take great pleasure in recommending your 
latent Artificial Leg. I procured one from you in May, 1867, 
and have worn it steady ever since, and will say that it is far su- 49 
perior to Mr. Jewett’s leg which I wore two years and a half and 
broke it down, but for many months before I broke it I was temp- 
ted to throw it away on account of it being loose at the joints and 
rattling. 
I find that your leg is durable and never rattles at the joints, 
owing to their being so arranged that two iron surfaces do not 
come into contact with each other. .Another advantage is that 
the regulating of the knee joint is so convenient that it can be 
made tight or loose in a moment, to suit the wearer; and another 
advantage in your leg is the spring that holds the foot up; it never 
gets out of order, no odds how far it is walked with, and the joints 
are today as tight as they were the day I procured it; and an- 
other advantage is that if the knee joint is not entirely back to its 
place when the weight is thrown upon it, it will straighten under 
me instead of flying out and throwing me down; I cannot fully 
account for this advantage unless I could show it to a person, this 
being a great advantage to a person, which cannot be fully appre- 
ciated by any one but the wearer. I wore your leg fifteen months 
and did not oil the joints, and as it did not squeak I thought it did 
not need oil. If I am obliged to get another leg I will surely get 
one of your make, owing to their durability and simplicity of con- 
struction. 
Yours truly, 
james J. McConnell, 
Late 3d Ind. Yols. 
New York, April 30, 1870. 
James A. Foster, Esq., Detroit, Mich.: Dear Sir—I have, as 
you are aware, worn one of your artificial legs nearly four years, 
and it has proved perfectly satisfactory in every respect. It is 
very seldom indeed that I use a cane. I have, on several different 
occasions during the past two winters, skated for hours at a time 
with but little fatigue. I take pleasure in recommending your 
legs to any who are so unfortunate as to need them. 
With best wishes for your success, 
I am very truly yours, 
CHAS. F. ABBEY, 
With Lorillard Ins. Co.,‘ N. Y. City, late 107th N. Y. Vols. 
Mingo, Ohio, March 1st, 1870. 
J. A. Foster, Esq., Philadelphia, Pa. 
Pear Sir—For the benefit of those that have been as unfortu- 
nate as myself, I would state that I wore an artificial leg made by 
Jewett, five years, and then discarded it for one of your Patent 
Union Limbs. I find it far superior in many respects, and would 
cheerfully recommend and honestly believe it to be the best now 
in use. Yours truly, 
J. L. GUTHRIDGE, 
Late Corporal Co. A, 66th Ohio Yols. CERTIFICATES AND -CORRESPONDENCE FROM LADIES. 
50 
The following extracts from letters received from Miss M. 
J. Hanna, are published without her knowledge, but judging 
from the tone ot her letter sent me for publication that she will 
not be offended, and therefore I take the liberty to publish them. 
June 10th, 1866, she writes— 
I received my artificial limb last Thursday, and cannot find 
language to tell you how well I am pleased with it. I have 
worn it three days and am able to jump the rope with any of my 
scholars. 
I have now been in school three weeks : I have forty scholars; 
I get along nicely with them and enjoy myself very much, as 
teaching is my favorite occupation. 
July 8th. 
I get along nicely with my artificial limb ; I like it better 
every day I wear it. The longest walk I have taken yet is 3 miles. 
August 18th. 
I think it terrible to be deprived of the privilege of walking, 
and often think what a blessing the men who brought artificial 
limbs to such perfection have conferred upon their unfortunate 
fellow creatures. I have not known what real comfort was for 
the last eleven years until I procured this artificial limb of you, 
and I cannot feel thankful enough for the enjoyment it has af- 
forded me. I use it with perfect ease, and do not hesitate to 
walk off two and a half miles in an evening. 
October 4th. 
My brother wishes me to say to you, that his artificial limb 
works capitally and shows no signs of getting out of repair. He 
met a man last Wednesday who was wearing an artificial limb 
manufactured by Dr. Bly, and after walking a while and com- 
paring notes, he told my brother he should get one of your 
manufacture. 
Ravena, Mich., November 5th, 1866. 
Mr. James A. Foster: Detroit, Mich. 
Dear Sir—Hearing you are about to publish a list of volun- 
tary testimonials from those that are wearing your limb, I has 
ten to bear witness to its goodness. Really I am doing so well 
well with it that I do not know on what particular point to speak. 
I can do housework with perfect ease, I can again mix in 
an assemblage of people without being gazed upon or pointed 
at or what is still worse to hear that harsh though often kindly 
meant exclamation ‘there is a cripple.’ Your artificial limbs 
need no eulogy from my pen, they only need to be seen and 
applied to be appreciated. 
I shall take much pains to recommend them, when I meet 
with those in need of a substitute for a lost limb. 
Yours very I’espectfully, 
MISS MARY JANE HANNA. Later testimony from miss hanna. 
I a letter which her brother, Alex. Hanna, wrote me, da- 
ted June 20th, 1870, and published in another part of this pam- 
phlet, speaking of the superior qualities of the artificial limb I 
made for him, he says:— 
My sister, Mrs. Mary Jam Price endorses all I have written 
in relation to your artifiaial limbs. 
It will be observed that since the limb was made she has 
been fortunate enough to have her name changed—as I hope 
all good ladies may, especially my customers—and as a matter 
of course I think it is all owing to having a good limb. Now 
I do not wish to have the ladies think they are sure to get mar- 
ried as Miss Hanna did, after getting a limb, but I would say 
this much to the ladies, and also to gentlemen wanting good 
wives, that I will do my best to give all that apply to me for a 
limb a good understanding and if they do not make good wives 
it shall not be a fault of mine. 
J. A. F. 
51 
Ceresco, Mich.. March 7th, 1870. 
Mr. Foster: Philadelphia, Pa. 
Bear Sir—You wanted to know if you could use my name for 
reference. It it will be of any use to the afflicted you can print 
it. I am ready to recommend your artificial limbs; I have worn 
one of Palmer’s; it done very good service; I have worn one 
of your make since the first ot last June, and I like it very 
much; I think it much easier and lighter to wear than the Pal- 
mer ; I can cheerfully recommend it to all afflicted with the loss 
of a limb. I feel thankful that there can be such good substi- 
tutes for those that are afflicted in this way, for it is a great mis- 
fortune to lose a limb, and if we could not have so good a 
substitute it would be worse. I have said enough for this time. 
Yours very respectfully, 
MRS. MATILDA HALSTED. 
Fentonville, Mich., May 17th, 1870. 
Jas. A. Foster. Detroit, Mich. 
Sir—I write to let you know that I arrived home safe, and that 
I am getting along nicely with the artificial limb you made for me 
last month. I like it better every day I use it. My friends are 
very happily disappointed in seeing me walk so well. They thought 
it would take about a year for me to learn to go without a crutch 
or a cane, but I am pleased to be able to inform you that I can 
now walk well without either. 
Yours very respectfully, 
MISS SARAH BURROWS. 52 
Adrian, Mich., July 14th, 1870. 
Mr. Jas. A. Foster, Detroit, Mibh. 
Dear Sir—I am happy to say that the artificial limb you made 
for me in April last, is doing very good service and I like it much 
better then I expected to when I had it fitted. 
Since I have been deprived of walking, I have looked out on peo- 
ple seeing them walk to and fro, and it seemed as though it was my 
lot to never enjoy again that which I have been deprived of so 
long, but I think now there is a chance for me to soon mingle in 
society again, and enjoy that which no one knows how to appreciate 
except those that have suffered like myself. 
The limb seems to be a perfect fit and well finished, and all that 
have seen it speak very highly of its perfections. 
Yours with much respect, 
MISS ELIZA MYERS.. 
TESTIMONY FROM A LADYT THAT HAS TRIED A MARKS’ 
LEG. 
Lebanon, N. J-, June 2d, 1870. 
Jas. A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa. 
Dear Sir—I write to let you know how I get along with the 
artificial limb you made for me, and must say that I feel very 
proud of it, for it looks and works so much better than the one 
made for me by Mr. A. A. Marks, which had a rubber foot and 
stiff ankle. It was very heavy, and in my case did not prove dur- 
able, but I made it answer my purpose until I got a better one, 
and have now laid it aside altogether. I can now walk about and 
do all kindslof work. 
From your obed’t serv’t, 
MISS G1TTY M. SHURTS. 
DOUBLE AMPUTATION ON LADIES. 
Case of a girl seven years old—one ampliation above and the other 
below the knee. 
The following letter is from her father, written soon after she 
got the limbs, which shows that she will soon be walking about on 
a pair of artificial limbs. 
Secor, 111., July 26th, 1870. 
Jambs A. Foster: Dear Sir—My Jittle girl is learning to 
walk very fast, notwithstanding the extremely hot weather. 
By the aid of crutehes she can walk all about the yard. She 
thinks she would not take two hundred dollars for the short one; 
she can get along with it and her crutches about as well as if she 
had her natural leg. We expect to have her photograph soon,and 
then I will write again. 
Yours as ever, 
T. D. FAUCETT. 53 
Sarah C, Fawcett, only 7 years of age, daughter of Mr. T. U. Fawcett, 
of Secor, 111. ** 
AS SHE IS. 
AS SHE WAS. 
I sent this little girl’s limbs to her from my Cincinnati office, 
July 11th, 1870, and by a letter from her Father, (T. D. Faw- 
cett) dated the 26th, ot the same month and printed on the 52d 
page, it will be seen how fast she learned to walk, in a very 
short time, and the following letter explains how well she gets 
around after having her limbs only fourteen months, 
Secob, 111., Sept. 12th. 1871. 
James A. Fostbb. Dear Sir—I received your letter in due time, but have been eo 
busy that I have neglected to write, and I hope you will excuse me for not writing 
■ooner. Our little girl is in good health, and can walk very well without a cane. She 
does not use on« about the house but very little. She will take a cane and walk to my 
brother’s (over half a mtle) as quick as most any little girl of her age that has her natu- 
ral limbs. The Artificial Limbs do not hurt her nor get out of order; in fact, they work 
like a charm. I do not think they could be made to do any better. Some manufacturers 
told me they could never be made to be of much service to her, but I would not have 
her do without them one year for all the money they cost, and if she does not outgrow 
them I think they will last her for ten years. 
1 do not wish to blarnev you in the least, but 1 do think 1 was very lucky in employ- 
ing you to make them. The little girl is very thankful for the photographs you sent her, 
but would be more pleased if you would come and oee us. 
Yours with much respect, 
T. D. FAWCETT. 
After reading the above letter, who will doubt their ability, it 
they put forth energy, to successfully use an Artificial limb, after 
having lost one or both their natural ones. It will be seen by 
the above cuts that one of this little girls limbs is amputated be- 
low, and the other above the knee. It has been supposed by some, 
that a person could do nothing with two artificial limbs, and a 
great many would say that with one amputation above the knee, 
it would be useless to attempt to wear a pair, but happily for the 
maimed, Art and Science has refuted all such impressions, aad 54 
those suffering from double amputations may rest assured that 
they can get permanent relief by the use of a good pair of Arti- 
ficial Limbs. If there are any who fear they could not success- 
fully use an Artificial Limb, I would say that if they get a good 
article, and do not make it useful, it is positively their own 
fault but it must be borne in mind, that it requires some exertion, 
to become proficient in the use of one, but where is the person 
of mature age, who cannot accomplish as much as Mr. Fawcett’s 
little girl, only seven years old? JAMES A. FOSTER. 
West Union, Iowa, Aug. 28th, 1871. 
James A. Foster, Esq.—I have worn one of your artificial legs 
during the past seven months, and am well pleased with it. 
I had previously worn a Jewett, and a Salem leg, I think 
yours is far preferable in every particular, to either of those. 
Very truly, MARSHAL HOUSE. 
Cincinnati, O., Aug. 26, 1871. 
James A. Foster, Detroit Mich. 
Dear Sir—For the benefit of those who have been so unfor- 
tunate as to lose a leg, I desire to give my experience in the use 
of an artificial one, 
In 1865,1 procured one of Dr. Bly’s celebrated ball and 
socket, side motion legs, after wearing it a short time, I threw it 
aside, and concluded artificial legs were a humbug, and walked 
on my crutches for more than two years, but was finally persuaded 
to try it again. I took the Bly leg to your branch establishment in 
Cincinnati, and had a new socket made for it, and managed to wear 
it eight months with but little satisfaction. The cords and springs 
in the foot and ankle were constantly giving out, I then procured 
one of your Union Artificial Legs, and have been wearing it for 
about sixteen months, and it has proved an entire success. 
My leg is off above the knee. I use a cane but not from necessity, 
as I can walk as well without it. My lameness is hardly perceptible. 
I would be glad to confer with any persons who may desire a 
leg, and will give me a call. 
There is another advantage I think your legs have over that of 
any other manufacturer, that is in their being Substantial. 
I remain yours truly, 
a. V. STEVENSON, 131 West 4th St. 
Late Col. Inter. Rev., 4th, Dist.,Ind. 
Formerly of 7th Reg.Ind. Vol. 
McVeytown Pa., March, 22d, 1871. 
Jambs A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa. 
Dear Sir—I have been thinking of you this afternoon, and 
will try and scratch a line for you. My leg is doing very well 
in every way. It is as nice a fit as could be made, and there 
does not appear to be anything going wrong with it yet, and I 
make it run a good bit too. I just think I can walk and work 55 
with anything that trots ont on an artificial leg. The improved 
method of lacing is well worth what I paid you ($5) for them. I 
would not be without them for twice that. I can walk from five 
to eight miles,when the weather is cool, just as fast as any ordin- 
ary man wishes to trot along. The lady I recommended to you, and 
told you of, went to Kimble, through the influence of some of her 
friends, and got a leg made, that is not fit for anything, but kind- 
lings, unless it is to look at, as she can’t wear it. It does not fit, 
and it is too long; so she has no leg she can use. After all, she 
begins to think a fool’s advice is better than none. 
Hoping you may ever prosper in the business, 
I remain respectfully yours, 
JOHN RHINEHART. 
P. S, If you want a certificate, I can cheerfully reccommend 
your Patent Union Limb, and I think I have given it a fair 
trial. J. R. 
LATER TESTIMONY FROM MR. RHINEHART. 
McVeytown, Mifflin Co. Pa., Sept. 2d, 1871. 
James A. Foster, Philadelphia Pa. 
Dear Sir—I have used an artificial leg manufactured by Pal- 
mer about ten years, and have had one of your Patent Union 
limbs eighteen months, and as for simplicity, durability &c., I 
consider it surpassing any I ever saw. 
One great advantage in your limbs, is that the wearer can take 
it apart, if he should ever wish to, and he can adjust the springs, 
and cords to suit his notion, in a very short time, which cannot be 
done by the wearer, with any other leg manufactured in Phila- 
delphia. Yours very respectfully, 
JOHN RHINEHART. 
It was not my intention to publish any certificates, only from 
those who are using my Patent Uhion Leg, and having previously 
worn those made by other manufacturers—except in cases of 
double amputation, or bad stumps:—the following letter is 
from a man that hag had eighteen years experience with various 
artificial limbs, andwas wrote to (Mr. Rhineheart, author of the 
above letter) who was making inquiries of those who have had 
more experience, where he could get the best limb. I thought 
best to give it a place, which plainly speaks for itself and needs 
no comments. J. A. FOSTER. 
Harrisburg, Pa., March, 30th 1870. 
J. Rhinjwart, Esq. 
In reply to yours of yesterday* I will say I have examined 
every manufacturers Limbs, and from close observation of the 
principles of construction, would recommend The Foster Leg 
as superior to any other for strengh, simplicity, durability and 
economy. Having used Artificial Limbs myself, for eighteen 56 
years, I can fully appreciate the advantage of simplicity in con- 
structions, which enables the wearer to do any required oiling, 
dozing of joints, and taking up lost motion, which in any other limb 
entails loss of time and use of leg, besides expense of charges of 
the maker. When in Philadelphia, last October, I examined 
them throughly, returned home on Stackhouse’s Train,rand being 
intimate with him told him of Foster’s superiority over others. 
Two of my acquaintances since then, have received and are 
walking on, and find them superior to any other. 
Foster’s Office is No- 911 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia. 
I hope you will get suited, and should like to hear from you 
on your return from Philadelphia. 
Respectfully, H. EBERSOL. 
Sterling, 111., June 13th, 1871. 
J. A. Foster—Dear Sir: I promised to let you know how 
I liked my leg, but I find it a pretty hard job to do so. I thought 
the leg I had (one of Kimball’s & Go’s.) was good, but I find I was 
much mistaken, Yours is so much better, that it seems as if I 
had been supplied with a natural limb. 
Heretofore, while using the old one (Kimball & Co’s.) I was very 
careful about walking, only going when it was absolutely neces- 
sary, but your leg works and fits so well that it is really a pleas- 
ure to walk about. 
I went to the Soldier’s Reunion at Rock'Island, 111., on the 
7th, and although the day was very warm I walked full eight 
miles, and surprised my friends, as I have not walked half that 
distance in one day since I lostmy leg. I do not think the leg you 
made for me can be beat except by a natural one. I have very 
little of that disagreeable sensation in the stump that I had 
when using the old one. Yours fits well, feels comfortable, and 
is just what I think an artificial limb should be, and while walking 
feels about five pounds lighter than the old one. It a better 
leg can be made I would like to see it, and until I do I will not 
believe it. 
You can refer any one to me who may want an artificial leg. 
Respectfully yours, 
R. L. MANGAN. 
Osceola, Lewis Co., N. Y., Feb. 15th, 1871. 
J. A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa., 
Dear Sir—I have received my Artificial Leo and have 
wanted to try it before writing to you. I am very much pleased 
with it; it’s just the Jit. I can wear it every day from morning 
until night, and never think of its being an Artificial Limb, be- 
cause I can walk just as well as I ever could. Mr. Foster, I shall 
never have any other but your Patent Union limb, for I believe 
it is the best in use, and I speak from experience, after having 
worn out a leg made by B. Frank Palmer. 
Yours truly, 
JAMES ELLIOTT. West Waterville, Kennebeck Co., Me.,) 
June 18 th, 1871. I 
Jas. A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa. 
Dear Sir—I am very much pleased with the Artificial leg you 
made for me, and 1 am much obliged to you for making me such 
a good one. It is far better than the one Mr B. Frank Palmer 
made for me. Yours truly, 
FREEMAN ELLIS. 
Town Hill, Luzerne Co. Pa., Sept. 4th 1871. 
Jamfs A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa. 
Dear Sir—Having worn one of your patent legs for nearly 
eight months, I desire to add my testimony in favor of an inven- 
tion so beneficial to humanity. I suffered amputation of my left 
leg, nine inches below the knee, March 29th, 1865 Six months 
after, I began to wear a leg made by Jewett of Washington, 
D. C. I wore it nearly five years, with a good amount of repairs, 
and incopvenience. I began to wear my artificial leg you made 
me last February. The socket was comfortably fitted, and have 
no trouble with it whatever. I cannot express in language, myad- 
miration and gratitude, for an invention which reconciles me to 
the loss of a limb, and which enables me to enjoy so much comfort 
and happiness. It makes that which formerly appeared as one 
of the severest afflictions to be in reality one of the least. Your 
patent leg has been perfectly satisfactory in every way, and I do 
not see what fault can be found, or what improvement can be 
made. The advantage yours have over all others I am acquainted 
with, is in the lightness and in the springs- 
I am very respectfully your ob’t servant. 
CHAS. M. BETTERLY, 
Cincinnati, O., Aug. 28th, 1871. 
•Tas. A. Foster, Esq., Dear Sir—After an experience of two 
years and six months, 1 deem it my duty to compliment you on the 
success of the Artificial leg you made me. I have worn it every 
day since I received it from your Cincinnati office, March 1st, 1869. 
It is now apparently in as good working order as it was the first 
day I received it. I have worn legs from other manufacturers, 
previous to getting one from you, and I can honestly recommend 
your leg to be tar superior to any other leg that I have worn, or 
seen I wore one of Dr. Bly’s Patent Side Motion legs one year 
and ten months, and it annoyed me very much by constantly get- 
ting out of repair. The average expense in repairs on the last year 
I wore it, being about one dollar per week. Since I have been 
wearing your leg, the repairs have not exceeded two dollars. 
JOHN F. SPAETH, 
No 1 Harrison Ave. Cor, of Coleman St. 
Darlington, "VVis. Aug. 15th, 1871. 
JamesA. Foster, Detroit, Mich.: Dear Sir—It is with pleasure 
that I address you in answer to yours of the 12th, inst, and would say that I am satisfied, and more than that, for I am hap- 
pily surprised, for the Artificial Leg works far better than I ex- 
pected one could be made to work. Since I received my leg in 
December last, I have almost forgotten that I have lost one of 
my natural members, for this limb works so much better than 
the artificial leg I had manufactured by Dr. Palmer. I had never 
expected that I should be able to walk with as much ease and 
comfort as I do, and my friends here express great surprise at 
the improvement in my walk, since I discarded the Palmer leg, 
for one of your manufacture. 
Dentistry being my profession, I could not possibly get along 
without an artificial limb, and if I had to buy one of you every 
year to keep me on my feet, I should rather do so than to use 
the Palmer manufacture again. 
In relation to your inquiry about using my name in your 
Catalogue, I would say, you are at liberty to use it in any way 
that will benefit the maimed and sufteriny humanity, by letting 
them know of the superiority of your Patent Union Artificial 
Leg, and I am willing at any time fo bear witness to its utility, 
and as far as my experience goes in the use of such articles, I 
certainly recommend your Patent. 
Yours very respectfullv, DR. J. A. FORD. 
Cincinnati, O., Feb. ‘29th, 1871. 
Jos. A.Foster: Dear Sir—It is now lour years since I purchased 
one of your Patent Union Artificial Legs, and am highly pleased 
to state that it has given perfect satisfaction, for its durability, 
strength and simplicity of construction. It is less liable to get out 
of repair and more easily kept in order. I must give it a de- 
cided preference over the Bly leg which I used. It gives one 
more ease and comfort, and certainly is more durable, and I 
cannot see as it has worn a particle yet. 
After giving your invention a fair trial, I find it well worthy a 
high recommendation. 
Yours'truly, JOHN BARRICK. 
Lansing, Mich., Aug. 17th, 1871. 
James A. Foster: Sir—After having wern a Bly Side Motion Ar- 
tificial Leg made by J. E. Gardner of Chicago, for a while, and 
found it good for nothing only to be out of repair all the time, 
and having worn one of yours for a year, I can safely say that 
yours is far superior to the one made in Chicago. I can get 
around better and do more work with it, and would say to those 
wishing a leg that they can not do any better than to patronize 
your establishment. Wishing you success, I remain, 
Yours. &c‘, EDGAR W. CLARK- 
James A. Joster: Dear Sir—In reply to your inquiry how I like 
the Artificial Leg made by you, I would say it gives entire satis- 
faction. My leg is amputated at the upper third, leaving me a 
stump of about four inches in length. I have worn your leg one year and six months, and think I have tested it thoroughly, being 
employed in the Post Office, where my business requires me to 
stand ten hours every day, which is very trying on both leg and 
wearer. For lightness, durability, finish and a good fit, it far 
excels the Palmer leg, which I wore for some time, but it never 
gave me satisfaction. 
In my estimation, your leg far excels anything I have yet seem 
Yours respectfully, JOSEPH A. HINDMAN. 
Clerk in Post Office, Cincinnati, O., formerly of 5th Ohio Cavalry. 
Annville, Lebanon Co., Pa., Sept. 11th, 1871. 
James A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa. 
Dear Sir—I take this opportunity to express my satisfaction 
with the Artificial Limb you made for me I have worn it 
about nine months now, with perfect ease. The Hudson leg, is 
no comparison to it, for I can do twice the work on this leg that 
you made that I could on Dr. E. D Hudson’s. I worked in hay- 
making and harvesting about twenty days, where I could not do 
it on Hudson’s leg. I can cradle three acres of heavy grain in one 
day,and I can take my gun on my back and can go out gunning, 
and can walk just as easy my fifteen miles in a day as I could on 
Hudson’s five. I would say to those who have been so unfortunate 
as to loose a limb, try the Foster patent, and you will be sure of 
an easy wearer and a durable limb. 
Yours truly, JOHN SHAUD. 
North East, Md., Sept. 2d, 1871. 
Mr. James A. Foster, Philadelphia, Pa. 
Dear Sir—Yours of the 30th ult., asking whether the limb 
you made for "me, would justify my recommending it, is re- 
ceived, and I would beg leave to state that I have worn my leg 
since I received it, and so far has given me entire satisfaction, and 
will most cheerfully recommend it (instead of the Jewitt leg which 
I have tried) to all who are so unfortunate as to need one. 
Yours with respect, J• H. McCRACKEN. 
Late Co. A. 8th Regt. Md. Vols. 
Monroe Mich., August 14th, 1871. 
James A. Fostea—Sir: you ask how I like the Artificial Leg 
you made tor me in May last; in reply I would say that it fully 
meets my highest expectations, which is admiting much, for my 
expectations were great indeed, after being acquainted with your 
work for about five years. 
For the benefit of those afflicted like myself, you may if you 
please publish a little of my experience with one of Dr. Douglass 
Bly’s Anatomical or ball and socket artificial legs, with a lateral 
or side motion at the ankle joint. When I wanted an artificial 
leg for my use in 1863, Dr. Bly’s side motion leg was attracting 
considerable attention, and as it was something new, and had not 
been practially tested, it was looked upon with much favor 
by surgeons and those wanting one, consequently I like hundreds of others thought best to try one, and paid an exceeding high 
price for that which proved in my case a very expensive luxury, 
for it was continually out of repair, as you well know by the num- 
ber of times you repaired it after starting your manufactory at 
Detroit; the great benefits to be derived from the lateral motion, 
I never found, and if they really werewhat was claimed for them 
your improvements in the Knee Joint would more than counter- 
balance it. When Dr. JBly issued his concilatory circular in 1868, 
stating that he had made some valuable improvements, and here- 
after he would warrant them for a certain length of time, and 
would make good those that had not proved satisfactory, I took 
new courage and thought he meant to do what was fair and just, 
but was greatly disappointed when I sent for a set of cords and 
springs (which had been the greatest source of annoyance) to have 
them sent marked to collect pay on delivery. This is the way he 
made good the failure in the leg he made for me, and I expect 
he makes good the warrant on the legs, made after issuing the 
circular, in about the same way, for some time after he had his 
Western manufactory carried on in other persons name, so that 
those wishing to have the warrant made good, I expect will have 
to find the Doctor himself. I hope others have been more 
fortunate than myself with that kind of a leg, if so, they may 
give a more favorable account of it, but judging from the immense 
number of customers you have, who have previously tried the 
side motion leg that my experience has been the fate of thou- 
sands of my fellow sufferers. 
Yours very respectfully, PATRICK MATTHEWS. 
I Might. Continue and publish an almost unlimited 
correspondence from those that have tried the various artifi- 
cial limbs made by other manufacturers, eulogizing the 
merits of my 'Patent Union Artificial limbs, (after 
having procured one of me), but as they have such a Similar- 
ity to those already pri?ited} they would appear so mon- 
otonous that but few would care lo i'ead them,and. I think 
that if such kind of evidence has any influence whatever, I have 
given enough to convince the most skeptical, but if not, I 
will furnish any reasonable amount required on application. 
JAMES A. FOSTER. TESTIMONY FROM ONE THAT HAS TRIED A MARKS AXD A 
BLY LEG. 
57 
Bright, Dearborn Co., Ind., March 5th, 1870. 
Mr. Foster—Dear Sir: I have used artificial legs of various kinds 
for over five years, and flatter myself that I ought to be a good judge 
concerning all the requirements connected therewith, after using your 
artificial leg, which I received from you a few months ago. It has 
proved perfectly satisfactory. I walk with ease, and am not in dread of 
attracting the attention of every body. I have had two limbs. I re- 
ceived a leg made by Dr. Bly; I have worn it two years ; it was a per- 
fect rattle-box; the ankle joint was a perfect nuisance. I received a leg 
made .by A. A. Marks; I wore it eighteen months and then it went to 
pieces . I am not satisfied, and I think I could make a better leg myself. 
I pity the man that makes worse legs than they are. I recommend 
James A. Foster’s artificial limbs as the best, 
Truly yours, 
SAMUEL McCLURE, Co. H, 83d Ind. Yols. 
TESTIMONIALS OF SURGEONS. 
Potsdam, N. Y., March 10th, 1865. 
James A. Foster,—Sir—My nephew is greatly pleased with the 
leg you made him, and he says no money could buy it if he could not get 
another from you. I was present when he first put it on, and examined 
it carefully and with much interest, as I have often done the legs and 
arms made by ether men, and I must say that yours is the most perfect 
and best adapted, and best fitted of any I have examined. My nephew 
can walk up hill and down, and on the side hill with great ease and 
comfort to himself, 
I think the great secret of your success is in making and fitting the 
limb to the stump. Your mechanical eye at once’discovera the strength 
and power of the muscles of the stump and hip and loins, and you seem 
to judge most correctly of their combined power, and you seem to know 
by looking at the man what sort of limb will suit his stump and 
strength, so as to give him comfort and ease in walking, aud make him 
forget he has a wooden leg. 
Respectfully your friend, 
G. F. COLE, M. D. 
Detroit, June 10, 1866. 
I have examined somewhat critically the artificial leg manufac- 
tured by Mr. James A. Foster of this city, aud I must say that it is a 
most excellent article. It is in some respects, I think, superior to either 
Palmer’s or Bly’s celebrated limbs. 
MOSES GUNN, M. D., and Professor of Surgery. 
Jas. A. Foster,—Sir,—From a careful examination of your artifi- 
cial leg, and also having witnessed its successful operation, 1 take plea- 
sure in recommending it as complete, durable and easy of repair, and in 
these respects unsurpassed by any other artificial legs with which I am 
acquainted. 
E. W. JENKS, M. D. 
79 Shelby St., Detroit, June 19, 1865. 
I have examined with much satisfaction the artificial leg manufac- 
tured by Mr James A. Foster of this city,’and would heartily recom- 
mend it to any person requiring such a member. 
GEO. P. ANDREWS, M. D. Later from Dr. Andrews. 
Detroit, March 25th, 1870. 
Jas. A. Foster,—Sir,—I cheerfully add my testimony to that of 
others, in regard to the value of the artificial limb made by you. The 
principle on which it is based, appears to me one of the best in use. 
Themechanical execution and external appearance also, is all that can 
be desired. 
Very respectfully, 
G. P. ANDREWS, M. D. 
58 
Detroit, June 20,1865. 
To whom it may concern: This may certify thatl have examined 
the leg manufactured by by a citizen of this city, Mr. James A. Foster, 
and believe it to be as good as any other made, and am not certain but 
it has superior qualities ; should not decline to recommend it to my 
best friend. 
JNO. M. ALDEN, City Physician. 
Detroit, June 22, 1865. 
I have seen in use and carefully examined the artificial leg manu-* 
factured by Mr. J.A. Foster of this city, and in ray opinion, for simplic- 
ity of structure, correctness of motion, durability and lightness, it is 
unsurpassed by any other artificial leg manufactured on this continent. 
HENRY A. CLELAND, M. D. 
Later from Dr. Cleland. 
Detroit, March 21st, 1870, 
I have critically examined the artificial limbs manufactured by Mr 
Foster of this city, and hare had opportunities of comparing them in 
use with those of other makers. I have much pleasure in stating that 
in simplicity of construction, they are unsurpassed,—that in durability 
and comfort they cannot be excelled. 
HENRY A. CLELAND, M. D., 
late Assistant Surgeon 2d Mich. Infantry. 
From careful examination I am convinced the artificial limb man- 
ufactured by James A Foster of this city, has some improvements in 
construction which make it more durable, easier to put and keep in or- 
der, and more serviceable than either Palmer’s or Dr, Bly’s, and can 
cheerfully recommend it to any in need of the same. 
Detroit, June 23d, 1865. J. F. Noyes, M. D. 
Detroit, June 24, 1865. 
Mr. Foster,—Dear Sir,—I have carefully examined the artificial 
leg manufactured by you, and without hesitation pronounce it the best 
I have ever seen. 
J. A. ALBERTSON, M. D. 
Detroit, June 24, 1865. 
I have carefully examined the artificial leg manufactured by Mr 
James A. Foster of this city. I regard it as superior in several respect# 
to either Palmer’s or Bly's. E. M. CLARK, M. D. 
Mr. Foster,—Dear Sir:—From the examination of the artificial 
limbs manufactured in the city of Detroit by yourself, I am pleased .to 
express my admiration of the mechanical simplicity of the construction 
of the joint movements, its lightness and naturalness of motion and 
beauty of finish, aud would cheerfully recommend it to the attention 
of those wanting artificial limbs. 
I remain yours obediently, 
Detroit, Jnne 25, 1865. LOUIS DAVENPORT, M. D. 59 
Harper U. S. A. General Hospital, > 
Detroit, Mich., June 26th, 1865. $ 
We the undersigned, having carefully examined the artificial leg 
manufactured by James A. Foster of this city, would state it as our 
opinion that it is unsurpassed by any other in simplicity of structure 
durability, and cheerfully recommend it to any one who may be in 
need of an artificial leg. 
D. 0- FARRAND, 
Assistant Surgeon U. S. A., Supt. ol Hospital 
W. C. CATLIN, 
A. A. Surgeon, U. S. A. 
W. A. CHANDLER, 
A. A. Surgeon, U. to. A. 
E. W. JENKS, 
A. A. Surgeon U. S. A. 
35 Lafayette St. West, Jane 28,1865. 
Mr. Jas. Foster—Sir: I have examined yonr specimen of artificial 
leg manufactured by you in this city, and must concede I have seen no 
superior in workmanship, and judging from its action as seen in its op- 
eration on yourself, it must meet all the requirements necessary for 
those who need its advantages. 
WM. BRODIE, M. D. 
Later from Dr. Brodie. 
35 Lafayette Are., Detroit, March 23d, 1870. 
James A. Foster,—Dear Sir,—In reply to your letter of March 10th 
in reference to your artificial leg, I beg to say that I examined your leg 
In 1865 aud have done so again this day. I am free to sfty I approve 
the same very highly. I have seen it in use of thope who have worn 
those of other makers, aud they tell me they decidedly prefer it. 
I have ho hesitancy in recommending it to ail who need. 
I am very respectfully your ob’t serv’t 
WM. BRODIE, M. D. 
Detroit, Mich., March., 21, 1870. 
James A. Foster,—Dear Sir,—I examined your artificial leg, five 
years ago, and was satisfied at the time that in it were united all the 
good qualities to be obtained in an artificial limb. I am also able to 
testify as to the good qualities of the limbs manufactnnd by you, hav- 
ing hau a number of persons using them under observation. 
D. O. FARRAND, M. D. 
I have seen enough of the workmanship of Mr. Foster, and of his 
processes adopted in the construction oi his artificial limbs, in his 
workshop, to justify me in expressing my concurrence in the opinion 
given by Dr. Farjand of their excellence. 
Z. PITCHER, M. D. 
March 21, 1870. 
* Baltimore, Md., April 14, 1869. 
have examined the artificial leg invented and made by James A. 
Foster: styled the “Patent Union Artificial Limb.” The apparatus is in- 
geniously adapted, very light and apparently durable. I have however 
never seen it in use. 
R. N. SMITH, M. D., Prof. Surgery, Maryland University! 60 
TESTIMONIALS FROM THE PRESS. 
The Detroit Review of Medicine and Pharmacy, published 
monthly, at Detroit, Mich., edited by Geo. P. Andrews, M. D., 
Samuel P. Duffield, P. H. D., and Edward W. Jenks, M. D., in 
an editorial in the April number for 1866, said : “ We would con- 
gratulate the gentleman (Mr. Foster) upon the success he has at- 
tained in producing a limb which enables the wearer to walk so 
naturally, avoiding the sidelong swing which betrays the loss of 
the natural limb in almost all other substitutes. Mr. F. has intro- 
duced a number of improvements, adding to the durability and 
comfort to the wearer of his manufacture. The external appear- 
ance also is very good. 
We notice the names of a number of the most prominent sur' 
geons of our State among Mr. Foster’s approvers, and cheerfully 
add our word of support to him in establishing himself among us, 
confident that any one so unfortunate as to need artificial support, 
will find in him a friend.” 
Within a little more than a year a branch of business has been 
introduced into Detroit, of espocial interest at the present time, 
and always of great benefit to a community, We refer to the 
manufacture of artificial limbs by James A. Foster. So great 
perfection has been obtained in the construction of these limbs that 
almost every unfortunate who has lost a limb, no matter where 
amputated, can soon walk with comfort aDd tolerable rapidity. 
The advantages which a man possessing one has over him who goes 
about on crutches, are so immense that we should snppose no one 
would be without whose means enabled him to command it. He 
is enabled to get about and perform his regnlar work, perhaps not 
of so great amount as beforebut in any business that does not 
demand extraordinary activity, almost as much as an able man ; the 
deformity is so slight that it is hardly noticed, and he is relieved 
from some disagreeable consequences that almost invariably follow 
the protracted use of crutches. This, in time, affeetts the nervous 
system, the spine and the lungs, besides causing sharp pains and gen- 
eral discomfort and illness. With the artificial arm and hand 
wonders can be achieved. The wearer, after a little practice, is 
able to wield it with rapidity and accuracy, and we have seen sev- 
eral specimens of writing done with one that were perfectly legible, 
and at least equal to that performed by most men with their left 
hand. It was natural that during and at the close of the war, attention 
should be directed more particularly to this branch of art, and that large 
improvements should be made in the construction of the articles. Already, 
as we have shown, it has reached such a point that the loss of the limb is 
hardly felt by the loser, but it is probable that the improvements in this 
manufacture have a limit which early will be reached, and, indeed, we 
hardly see how a limb much better than those we have mentioned can well 
be constructed. The heavy expense of a really good article is undoubt- 
edly [a serious consideration, but all the late improvements should cer- 
tainly be introduced.—Detroit Advertiser Sf Tribune, Sept. 18, 1866. 
61 
James A. Foster exhibits some artificial limbs 
which are far superior to anything invented ; the 
arm is almost as good as if natural, being suscep- 
tible of a variety of motions of the elbow, wrist 
and fingers. The leg when used cannot be de- 
tected. Mr. Foster, the inventor, a practical me- 
chanic, wears one of the legs, having lost one of 
his, and one would never know it unless told. He 
moves about with ease and comfort to himself, 
and the casual observer cannot see anything about 
the limb. To any one who has lost any of the 
natural members, the artflcial limbs are of ines- 
timable value.—Detroit Advertiser and Tribune. 
Sept. 17th, 1868. 
James A. Foster has a case of artificial limbs 
on exhibition which attract considerable atten- 
tion from their naturalness. They are made so 
as to move with all the freedom of motion which 
a natural limb has, and can scarcely be detected. 
The manufacture has been carried to the greatest 
degree of perfection.—Detroit Free Press, Bept. 
18, 1868. 
Foster’s Patrrt Union Artificial Limbs.— 
James A. Foster has on exhibition at the State 
Fair specimens of his artifioial legs and arms. 
We examined the limbs and can say for them that 
they come as near nature as anything artificial 
can, performing with wonderful certainty almost 
all tne funetions of the natural limbs. In Mr. 
Foster’s pamphlet will be found certificates from 
persons who have worn them, each testifying not 
only to the ease of wearing them, but their dura- 
bility. We have never seen stronger endorse- 
ments. One geutleman who had worn Bly’s and 
others, styles the Foster admirable, and urges all 
needing limbs to procure it. They are light, easy 
durable, and what is better stili, reliable.—Toledo 
paper), Ohio, Bept. 25, 1868. 
Artificial Limbs.—A noticeable feature In 
the upper part of Domestic Hall, at the Fair, Js 
a ease af artificial limbs manufactured by James 
A. Foster. t| * * Some years 
since Mr. Foster had one of his legs amputated 
above the knee, and is now wearing one of his 
artificial members, which he uses with seeming 
ease. Judging from his gait no one would suspect 
artificial support. Mr. F. comes well recommend- 
ed by the press, and what is more creditable, he 
holds good testimonials from many'eminent phy- 
sicians in the West; also from many who are now 
using his wares, some who, before taking them, 
used those of other patents They are believed 
to be the most practical limbs yet invented.— 
Rochester, N. Y. Chronicle, October 1,1868. 
TRfuMPH of Human Art.—Some three years 
ago a German immigrant, Frederick Stocklc by 
name, on his voyage to this country contracted, on 
shipboard, a disease which, settling in his feet, 
rendered amputation of both legs necessary. He 
came on to Bay City, where he engaged in cigar 
making, laboriously moving from place to place 
on bis knees. Some eighteen months since Mr. 
Btockle came to this city and procured a pair of 
artificial legs at the manufactory of Mr. James A. 
Foster, which he has since'worn continually and 
thoroughly tested. Happening to he in the Tri- 
bune office yesterday, we requested him to give 
us a specimen of his walking, which he did, and 
many a man with good limbs have we seen loeo- 
mote more clumsily. In fact without knowing 
Mr. Stockle's infirmity, no one would have sus- 
peeted that he was supported by other than his 
own natural limbs, ana in regard to the comfort 
and durability of the artificial ones he uses, he as- 
sures us that he has never experienced any trou- 
ble with them whatever. There is very little 
doubt that Mr. Foster manufactures thevery best 
artificial limbs made, being a scientific man, a 
thorough mechanic, and himself a wearer of one 
of his own make We are very happy to know 
that he is building up a very large custom, and is 
about to establish branches in various other 
cities.—Detroit Advertiser and Tribune, Dec. 15, 
1868. 
We went into the Mechanics’ hall. The firs1 
thing we became interested in was the Automatic 
Arm and Leg, made by James A. Foster. These 
limbs are verv nicely constructed, and are so ar- 
ranged that they can be operated by the action of 
the body to which they are attached, and perform 
their functions almost equal to the natural limb, 
or as near it as is possible for artificial limbs.— 
Utica, N. Y., Herald, Sept. 20th, 1869. 
Artificial Limbs.—James A. Foster exhibit- 
ed at the New York State Fair, held at Elmira, 
N. Y., 1869, some artificial limbs. They are 
very natural, being made to move with all the 
freedom of the natural limb, as shown by him- 
self, in use on his own persou at the Fair. He 
moves with ease and comfort to himself, without 
crutch or cane, and the casual observer cannot 
see anything about the limb. Circulars sent free 
on application to James A. Foster, Philadelphia, 
Pa., Cincinnati, Ohio, or Detroit, Mich.—Elmira, 
N. Y., Gazette, Sept. 17th, 1869. 
Mr. James A. Foster, the celebrated manufac- 
turer of the Patent Union Artificial Limbs, is 
daily receiving flattering testimonials from those 
who are using artificial limbs of his make. We 
are always gratified to give good recommendations 
of good workmanship.—Merchants and Manu- 
facturers’ Buliiten, Cincinnati. Ohio, March 3d, 
1860. 
In 1864, James A. Foster, who shows by lis 
daily walk that he has faith in his own vocation, 
started a factory for the manufacture of artificial 
limbs in Detroit. The war, then on its last legs, 
had created a void that needed to be filled. Mr. 
Foster, who commenced with little else than his 
tools, experience and ingenuity, in a shoit time 
was overwhelmed with orders. The same firm 
have also branch establishments in Cincinnati, 
and Philadelphia.—Detroit Post, May 8,1870. Western Rural, published at Chicago, 
111., and Detroit, Mien., December 22d, 1866, 
in an editorial, said: Mr. Foster’s limbs, as 
testimonials of surgeons and hundreds who 
have worn them will show, are unexcelled in 
America, if notin the world. He is a thorough 
practical mechanic, and the only manufac- 
turer of artificial limbs in the United States 
who himself wears a full-length limb, which 
he uses without a cane. Every department 
and detail of his business is under his most 
vigilant supervision, and nothing is spared to 
render his limbs the very acme of perfection, 
Detroit Free Press, September 12th, 1867, 
speaking of articles on exhibition in Floral 
Hall, said: We notice a fine display of arti- 
ficial legs and arms by J. A. Foster, of Detroit 
and Cincinnati. These limbs have very flexil 
ble knee, ankle and toe-joints, and a facsimile 
of a letter alleged to have been written by a 
soldier who has been furnished with arms of 
this pattern, showing a plain and legible hand 
writing, better far, might say the typos, than 
others “we wot of.” 
Louisville, Ky., Journal, September 20th, 
1867, said : We also notice the artificial arms 
and legs manufactured by Mr. James A. Fos- 
ter, of Cincinnati, Ohio. They are, seemingly, 
the perfection of such work, and possess many 
advantages over most of the artificial limbs 
now in ase. Mr. Foster lost his leg, ana 
studied out the best form of a substitute. He 
has succeeded in making wooden substitutes 
that cannot be told from real fiesh and blood 
when they are worn. The Palmer leg and the 
Bly leg are more complicated, more costly 
and more liable to get out of order. We 
saw some writing done by a soldier, who had 
lost both arms, but used Foster's artificial 
ones to such a purpose that the writing was 
better than that of some men who have good 
natural arms. We were very much interested 
in Mr. Foster’s display, and can refer those 
afflicted to him for assistance. 
Louisville, Ky., Courier, September 21st, 
1867, under the head of" valuable and praise- 
worthy,” said: The premium awarded to 
J as. A. Foster, of Cincinnati, yesterday, for 
tl»e best collection of artificial limbs, was just 
and right, for at no time in the world’s history 
was there more need of having them to per- 
fection than at the present time. The limbs 
surpass anything of the kind we have ever 
examined, and we see no chance for improve- 
ment in form, finish or utility. We think that 
any one who will call on Mr. Foster and ex- 
amine his improvements will be easily con- 
vinced that he has the best artificial leg and 
arm now manufactured; and as we sympa- 
thize with those who were so unfortunate as 
to lose a limb in battle or otherwise, we would 
advise those wishing anything in his line to 
apply to him for a descriptive pamphlet. 
Ohio STate Fair Gazette, September 26th, 
1867, said : James A. Foster, 60 West Fourth 
Street. Cincinnati, Ohio, exhibits in Fine Art 
Hall splendid specimens of artificial legs and 
arms. His manufactory is the only place 
where these articles are made and fitted 
west of New York and Philadelphia. His 
make oflimbs has been highly recommended 
by the Surgeon-General of the United States 
army. Those so unfortunate as to require 
articles of this kind will do well to take note 
V this fact. 
62 
Cincinnati Gazette, September 37th, 1867, 
bid: Jas. A. Foster, 60 West Fourth street, 
Cincinnati, exhibits several specimens of arti- 
ficial arms and legs, manufactured by himself. 
The exhibitor, unlike the physicians who dis- 
/iko their own medicines, wears a " leg of h/s 
own,” and says ho is the only manufacturer in 
America who wears i (ull length artificial leg, 
and who was a practical mechanic at the time 
of amputation. Thero are many whoso good 
fortune has kept them whole, who look with 
much interest on those wonderful substitutes 
for nature’s handiwork. Mr. Foster has been 
located for some time in Detroit, Michigan, 
where he still has a manufactory. 
Dayton, Ohio, Journal. September 27th,’ 
1867, said: Not far from the center of Fine 
Art Hall, can be seen an exhibition of artifi- 
cial limbs from the manufactories of Mr. 
James A. Foster, 60 West 4th street, Cincin- 
nati, and Jefferson avenue, Detroit, 
Michigan. Many manufacturers of artificial 
members have no more knowledge of their 
occupation than a carpenter. Not so, how- 
ever, with Mr. Foster. When by accident he 
was deprived of a leg, ho was a practical 
mechanic, and was therefore enabled to sup- 
ply himself with a limb of such perfectness ns 
to almost defy detection. Possessing the 
advantages heretofore enumerated, Mr. Fos- 
ter claims that he can fit and adjust a limb 
bettor than any other manufacturer in the 
United States, and numerous testimonials 
substantiate his claims. The specimens ex- 
hibited are of superior workmanship, and 
their design and finish bespeak Mr. F. a 
genuine artist. 
The Morning Journal, Published at 
Columbus, Ohio, September 27th, 1867, under 
the head of meritorious articles on exhibition 
at the State fair, said: In Fine Art Hall is to 
be seen a contribution of artificial limbs from 
the manufactories of James A. Foster, 60 
West Fourth street, Cincinnati, and Jeffer- 
aon avenue, Detroit, Michigan. The manu- 
facturer, who is a> practical mechanic, wears a 
full length limb of his own make, and its 
operations are so perfect as to almost defy 
detection. With the advantages of practical 
experience, Mr. Foster claims that he can fit 
and'adjust a limb better than any other man- 
ufacturer in the country. These limbs are 
made with great skill, are beautifully.polished 
and are the finest specimens of artificial mem- 
bers we ever examined. Parties desiring full 
particulars should write and obtain circulars 
and pamphlets. 
Thb Indianapolis Journal, of October 
7th, 1867, said: In Fine Art Hall, James A. 
Foster, 60 West Fourth street, Cincinnati, 
Ohio, shows some of his patent artificial limbs, 
leg and arms, which attract great attention, 
and are really the nicest and most convenient 
thing in this line ever patented. Mr. Foster 
wears one of the legs himself, but no ono 
would ever detect it unless told. Any one 
unfortunate enough to need such a thing will 
find these the best in the country. He has a 
depot also in Detroit, Michigau. 
The Terre Haute Express, of Qctobei 
4th, 1867. said: James A. Foster has his posi- 
tion in the center of Fine Art Hall with his 
artificial limbs. These limbs attract the same 
degree of attention here that they did at the 
Dayton Fair, on account of their perfection 
and beauty. 63 
THE MfssorRi Republican, published at 
Rt. Louis, October 10th, 1867, said : James A. 
Foster, of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Detroit, 
Michigan, has on exhibition artificial limbs, 
including legs, arms, feet and hands. The 
legs and arms arc suited to cither 'upper or 
lower amputation; and where any one has 
been so unfortunate ns to lose any of the 
natural members mentioned, these artificial 
substitutes are of inestiipable value. This is 
one of the achievementaof art of grout value 
to unfortunate humamty, which deserves 
especial commendation.1 
Wk.stmche Tost, Xo. 16 and 18 Chestnut 
street, Rt. Louis, October 12th, 1867, said : We 
have carefully examined the Patent Union 
Atrificial Litnns of James A. Foster, of Cincin- 
nati, Ohio, npd Detroit, Michigan, and can say 
with veracity that they cannot no equalled by 
my other. Korean all other kiwc of limbs be 
(umpared tojlMr. Foster’s—fitubs without life 
—which cannot be said of those of any other 
Manufacturer, as they are manufactured in 
mch a way as to imitate every movement of 
the human body. The press in every State 
and city has recommended them in the most 
flattering terms. 
The Cincinnati Commercial, September 
28th, 1867, said : A feature in Art Hall is the 
display made of artificial limbs, byJ. A. Fos- 
ter, of Cincinnati, whose stand is surrounded 
by the ‘‘boys in blue,” who came out of the 
great conflict with the slave power minus legs 
or arms; and, as nearly all of these have 
interesting incidents of ensanguined fields to 
relate, in which they were maimed, they 
attract as much attention as the finest pictures 
in the hall. And some of the questions the 
soldiers ask of the ” leg and arm mail” are 
really amusing. 
The Toledo Blade, of October 4th, 1867, 
under the head of Notices of a few of the 
inventions and improvements exhibited at 
the State flair, Dayton, Ohio, said: Mr. 
James A. Foster'had on exhibition some re- 
markably fine specimens of artificial limbs. 
He calls them “Union” Artificial Limbs, for 
the reason that they eombine all that can be 
wanted or expeoted in lightness, strength, 
simplicity of construction, durability, beauty 
and neatness. Mr. Foster, having been a 
practical mechanic and. losing a leg, set him- 
self to work to find out just what was wanted, 
and he claims to have accomplished it. They 
certainly look very finely, and his large list of 
testimonials from those who have used them 
—the best possible test—wfll go to- establish 
his elaims. They are manufactured at 60 
West Fourth street, Cincianati, and Jeffer- 
son avenue, Detroit, Miclr. 
A correspondcat of the Cincinnati Com- 
mercial, writing from the Indiana State 
Fair Ground, at Terre Haute, Ind., in giving 
a description of the finehrts on exhibition in 
Fine Art Hall, (which was published in the 
"Commercial,” October 4th, 1867, after men- 
tioning some other things,) says: We come 
now to one of those tip-toeing crowds, such as 
occasionally check the current of humanity 
that flows through these avenues of art, and. 
adding ourselves to the tip-toe fraternity, we 
flimpse at one of your Cincinnati men named 
'oster, but known on the fair ground as the 
“ arm and leg man.” Foster wears one of his 
wooden legs, and displays it to admirablo 
purpose. We saw him kick as high as our 
bead with his wooden leg, and we rejoiced 
that our chin didn’t stop it as it went up. 
The Chicago Repitbjjcax, of October 5th, 
1867, in noticing the finfe art? on exhibition in 
Fine Art Hall, at the Indiana State fair, said : 
In this hall is James A. Foster, of Cincinnati 
and Detroit, with his Union Artificial Limbs. 
These limbs are far superior to anything 
invented; the arm is almost as good as a 
natural one, being susceptible of a variety of 
motions of the elbow, wrist and fingers. The 
leg, when used cannot be detected. Mr. Fos- 
ter, the inventor, a practical mechanic, wears 
one of the legs, having lost his. and one would 
never know it unless told. Soldiers and 
others who have lost their limbs can almost 
replace them by using the Union. 
The Missouri Democrat, published at St. 
Louis, October 10th, 1867, said: James A. 
Foster, the inventor, exhibits his PatentUnion 
Artificial Limbs. Mr. Foster is wearing one 
himself, having lost his leg at mid-thigh. He 
moves about with ease ana comfort to himself 
without cane or crutch, and the casual ob- 
server cannot see anything artificial. As a 
proof of the excellence attained by these limbs 
we have a “ fao simile” letter written by a 
man who lost both arms at Gettysburg, who is 
now able to handle books, feed himself and to 
write a legible hand. Those who have been 
so unfortunate as to lose a Kmb will be 
cheered by the knowledge that the loss can bo 
supplied by an excellent substitute. Mr. 
Foster manufactures these limbs at Cincinnati 
and Detroit. 
Thb Manufacture of Artificial Limbs,— 
Until a short time since the manufacture of arti- 
ficial substitutes for human limbs was confined to 
a few houses in the Eastern States ; but when the 
late war with its attendant consequences had pro- 
gressed a few months, a great demand for artifi- 
cial limbs at once sprung up. The few establish- 
ments referred to were overrun with, and unable 
to fill their orders, which multiplied day by day. 
At that time Mr. James A. Foster, now of De- 
troit, Mich., then a workman in an artificial limb 
manufactory, seeing the defects in the articles 
then produced, gave the subject his entire atten- 
tion, and invented an artificial limb combining 
several new and valuable improvements, and con- 
structed, we believe, upon philosophical princi- 
ples. For his improvements letters patent were 
granted him August 8th, 1865. He at once estab- 
lished an office in Detroit, and offered his produc- 
tions to the public. Up to that time the limbs 
made and sold by other manufacturers gave gen- 
eral satisfaction, for the reason that no better 
substitutes were known; but soon the great 
merits of his invention and its superiority over 
, all others manifested itself in the demand for the 
Foster limb, which constantly increased. So 
great was the call for them in that locality that 
in January, 1867, he opened a manufactory in 
Cincinnati, Ohio, and he has since been solicited 
i to open others in other cities. Mr. Foster exem- 
plifies in person the superiority of his manu- 
facture, wearing as he does, a full length leg, 
and his gait will puzzle a close observer to dis- 
tinguish the productionof art from that of nature 
He has lately perfected an artificial knee joint, 
Jor which letters patont are now pending through 
the Mechanic and Inventor Agency. To all 
those who are so; unfortunate as to require artifi- 
cial limbs, we would advise to consult with Mr. 
Foster or his experienced assistants, at either 
manufactory, before ordering limbs elsewhere, or 
to write for descriptive circulars, which will be 
sent on application.—Mechanic and Inventor, 
published at Detroit, Sept., 1868. 64 
Fig.'l. 
2. 
Fig. 3. 
Fig. 4. 65 
Fig, 6. 
Fig. 5. 
Fig, 8. 
Fig, 7. 
In reviewing these illustrations and drawings, it should be borne in mind that the 
internal mechanism is drawn unproportionally large so that they might be plainly seen, 
and the principle more distinctly understood; for had each part been drawn on a scale 
proportionate with the external appearance of Fig. 1, some parts would scarcely be |visible, 
consequently at first sight they must appear clumsy and complicated. EXPLANATION 
OF THE 
ILLUSTRAITONS OF FOSTER'S PATENT UNION 
ARTIFICIAL LIMBS. 
On the 7th page of this pamphlet will be found some appropriate remarks and 
a brief description of the Patent Union Limbs, and it was not until they were in 
print that I thought of illustrating and explaining them more precisely, which will 
account for their not being more closely connected. 
Fig. 1 is a vertical sectional view showing very clearly 
every part of the interior arrangements forming the 
operating pans of a leg for a thigh amputation. 
Fig. 2 shews the construction of the knee joint, and 
also the arrangement to compensate for any amount 
of wear that may ever occur, whereby all tendency to 
rattle or clatter is entirely done away with by simply 
turning one nut (A). • 
Fig. 3 is a view of the apparatus for connecting the 
foot to the leg and forming the ankle joint. 
Fig. 4 shows the foot dataclied so that I can more 
fully and distinctly explain the simplicity, durability 
and superiority of the ankle joint. 
Fig/5 and 6 are longitudinal sections of the devices 
forming the knee and ankle joint, illustrated in this way 
for the purpose of having my explanations more dis- 
tinctly understood. 
Fig. 7 represents the external appearance of a leg 
for an amputation below the knee, and also 
A New Mode of Fastening the 
Leather Socket 
above the knee, used instead of the old-fashioned 
lacing with a string passing through eyelets. 
Fig. 8 represents an exterior view of a leg for an 
amputation of the thigh. 
Fig. 9 represents the external appearance of what we 
call a “ knee bearing leg.” 
Toe Joint. 
The toe joint (see Fig. 1 and 4) is articulated in the 
usual manner as other first class artificial limbs. The 
motion of which is operated by the spring (6) resting in an opening in the foot, 
and the action of these are regulated to suit the wearer by fsimply turning 
the nut (5 over the spring 6) on the end of the tendon (7) which passes down 
through the spring (6) and is attached permanently to the toe piece. 67 
The Ankle Joint is constructed very different from any other in an artificial 
leg, but since it was patented and brought into general use some of the man- 
ufacturers seeing the advantages it possessed, and the universal satisfaction it 
has given, have imitated it as near as they can and not infringe on my patent, 
but their imitations are very imperfect and clumsy as will be seen by reference 
to their partial drawings and slight specifications. 
X (see Fig. 3 and 6) is a cylinder journal made of a piece of steel, turned and 
polished perfectly smooth, of suitable length and size, with two flanges (W W), 
the object of which is to keep the foot and leg in their relative positions laterally 
It is bored out hollow (see Y Y, Fig. 6) like a cylinder which makes it very light, 
but just as strong and durable as though it was solid and heavier. S S are two 
bolts screwed and soldered into the two flanges (W W) around the journal (X), 
provided with screws and nuts (R R) on the upper ends to hold the journal per- 
manently in its proper place. By this method the journal (X) is held closely to 
the ankle or lower part of the leg, and the articulation is provided for in the foot 
portion. The interior of the journal (X) is provided with two bearings (Z Z) per- 
fectly fitted and brazed firm in near the center joint, far enough apart to admit of 
an (1) which the journal (X) receives through a slot cut in the bottom 
side, wide enough to allow it to vibrate backward and forward to give the foot its 
proper motion (see fig. 6), shows a small bolt (with a screw on the end) which 
passes through the upper end of the eye-bolt (1). and is screwed firmly into the 
bearings (Z Z) in the journal (x) which are all to be seen in Fig. 6. 
The foot (see Fig. 4) is provided with a suitable bearing which receives the 
journal (x) on which the foot oscillates. The eye-bolt (1) passes down through 
the foot, and is provided with a nut and screw (2) on the lower end of it, which 
can be screwed up against the bottom of the foot at any time to compensate for 
any amount of wear that may ever occur caused by the vibration of the foot in the 
ankle joint. 
Knee Joint. 
The improvements in the knee joint for thigh amputations are greater and more 
important. 11 are two light steel straps or plates (see Fig. 2 and 5) riveted firmly 
to the upper end of the inferior leg (see I and dotted lines in Fig. 1). The upper 
ends are enlarged and provided with suitable apertures to receive the knee axel, 
which is a hollow or tubular bolt (see G, Fig. 2 and 5) provided with a flanged 
head, and a suitable thread immediately adjoining said head, which fits and screws 
into the female screw which is provided in one of the plates (I). In this end of the 
bolt the aperture is made square (see G, Fig- 2) to insert a key to screw the head 
of the bolt (F) up firmly to the strap (I). The opposite end of the bolt (F) is 
made slightly conical upon the outside periphery, and is fitted into a conical 
opening made in the head of the other strap (I) suitable to receive it (see Fig. 5). 
The interior of this end ot the bolt (F) is tapped out and fitted with a short, 
hollow, flanged head screw bolt, proyided with a square aperture (see H, Fig. 2 
and 5) into which a key may be inserted for the purpose of tightening up said 
bolt (H), and thereby forcing when required, the head of the plate or strap (I) 
more closely upon the conical portion of the end of the bolt (F), thereby keeping 
it always perfectly firm in its proper place. This bolt (F) after being secured 
to the straps 11 (see Fig. 2) as described, which are riveted firmly to the leg below 
the knee, passes through ihe lower part of the thigh portion where the point of 
junction forms the knee joint and connects the two parts together, as seen in Fig. 
1 and 8. E is an eye bolt or tightening lever, the eye of which is provided with 
proper bushing to prevent wear as much as possible, and after receiving the knee 
bolt (see Figs. 1; 2 and 5), passes upward through a cross-piece or bearing ( C, as 
seen in Fig. 1), and is provided with a proper screw and nut (A) by mean3 of 
which the tension upon the hollow knee bolt (F) may bq adjusted, to compensate 68 
for any wear in the bearing that may ever occur by simply turning the nut (A), 
thereby entirely doing away with any tendency to rattle, caused by a worn, loose 
joint, which is a characteristic of all other artificial limbs now in use, and at 
the same time secure perfect flexibility. 
D (see Fig. 1) is a tendon slightly elastic which arrests the motion of the knee 
gently in walking, like the ligaments of the natural knee joint, thus preventing all 
disagreeable sounds and jaring sensations, caused by the solid parts coming in 
contact to limit the motion as in many legs now in use, and giving it the requisite 
elasticity. 
P (see Fig. 1) is the Tendon Achillis, or heel tendon (made like the knee ten- 
don D), which perfectly imitates the natural one, and its operation and action per 
tains to and relates oidy to the ankle and foot as in the natural limb, giving great 
elasiticity to the step, and an easy and natural motion. 
Q (see Fig. 1) is a tendon with a screw and nut (K) on the upper end, which 
passes down through the spring (L) and cross-bearing (N) which the spring 
sets on, and is attached to the foot in front of the turning point in the ankle joint, 
which imparts the requisite motion and raises the foot sufficiently high to pass all 
obstructions in taking the step ; by this method the tension of the cord on fhe 
spring to regulate the motion of the foot, can be adjusted to suit the wearer by 
simply turning the nut (K) over the spring (L). For an amputation below the 
knee, the stump is perfectly fitted into the socket, and a pair of curved (or straight, 
as the patient may choose) steel joints (see Fig. 7 the same as those that have 
been so highly extolled by some manufacturers) connect the part of the artificial 
leg below the knee with a perfect fitting leather socket, which is placed around the 
thigh just above the knee, and takes the greater portion of the weight of the 
patient on the thigh, thus gently relieving the pressure on the stump below the 
knee. Patients with short or tender stumps will readily see the usefulness of this 
arrangement; and I w ish here to call 
Particular attention to the manner of Lacing used 
on the upper socket of my best limbs, instead of the old-fashioned way 
of putting the strings through eyelet holes. I use hooks; they are attached to 
the upper socket, as seen in Fig. 7, so that when it is laced, the string and hooks 
are smoother and more even with the leather, so that anything lays over them more 
even and smoothly than with the old-fashioned way of lacing with eyelets used by 
other manufacturers. It will be seen that when a string is once laced up and 
tied to suit the wearer, it need not be untied but simply 
Unhooked and Re-hooked 
as occasion requires. With this kind of fastening, a leg can be put on or taken off 
in the dark as well and as quick as a sock or a boot on the natural foot. This will 
be highly appreciated (especially in dark and cold weather) by those who have 
worn artificial legs with the old-fashioned way of fastening the socket that comes 
above the knee joint. 
When a Person wishes to buy an Artificial Limb 
And has never seen one of my Patent Union (and perhaps no other kind),there are a 
few questions which would naturally suggest themselves and which he would most 
likely wish to ask, and I think they might as well be answered here These ques- 
tions would be about as follows : 69 
What are your Patent Limbs made of? 
They are constructed of such a variety of material as most effectually combine 
to render the greatest amount of strength, durability and utility, and to closely 
imitate the form and movement of the natural limb. For the foundation I use the 
English willow, which I shape to correspond exactly with the natural one, and 
hollow it out to a mere shell—very light. They are covered with a strong raw- 
hide, prepared expressly for this purpose, and firmly cemented to the limb, forming 
the main element of strength and making a smooth surface to receive the final 
finish, which is a delicate tinted water-proof enamel or cement, colored to closely 
imitate nature. 
Cork Limbs. 
It has been supposed by many that the lightest and best artificial limbs were 
made of cork, but that is a mistake. I have examined and repaired all the different 
kinds of limbs manufactured in this country, and as yet have never seen one made 
out of it. In former times, however, cork, to some extent was used in the bottom 
of the foot (to prevent as much as possible the thumping sound made when walk- 
ing with the old fashioned artificial legs) instead of the cushioning used now, and 
before the cord D (see Fig. 1) was used to limit the motion of the knee (the same 
as the circular ligaments of the natural knee joint). It was arranged so that two 
solid pieces came together to form a stop, which answered the same purpose, and 
cork was substituted for other material to prevent noise as much as possible ; and 
as there was some cork used and the rest of the limb being constructed so extremely 
light, it was very appropriately called a cork limb, hence the name they are now 
usually known by, and which I think myself is very suitable and just. 
Some thought Vulcanite Rubber would be the best material to make artificial 
limbs of, but it has been thoroughly tried in the United States and proved a failure. 
One heavy manufacturer expended a large sum of money in experimenting with it 
and then abandoned the project without offering any for sale, as it was found that 
when a rubber limb was made strong enough for use, it was about as heavy as 
two made of wood covered with rawhide. 
Soon after the commencement of our late war, a man in Philadelphia, Pa., con- 
ceived the idea that vulcanite rubber would make good artificial limbs, and (not 
knowing that it had been tried by other manufacturers and abandoned) a company 
was organized, and they commenced to manufacture them, and owing to the large 
number of soldiers losing limbs, there was at the time a large demand for artificial 
ones, and as this firm claimed they had something new and very valuable, their 
sales were quite large. It was soon found, however, that they did not prove 
satisfactory, but as this firm had never manufactured any other kind, they had no 
former reputation at stake, consequently they continued to advertise very exten- 
sively and manufacture as long as they could find any one to buy them. 
Lately, in the Province of Ontario (formerly Canada), a man caught the idea 
that India Rubber would make good artificial limbs, and not knowing that it had 
been tried before, supposed himself to be the first to use it for that purpose. Con- 
sequently he commenced to manufacture and advertise it quite extensively as being 
far superior for the purpose and as being original with him, and I think he is 
sincere in his belief; but how sadly disappointed he must be when he learns from 
experience that it is a failure, and instead of being in advance with anything new, 
he is far behind the times, as it had been thoroughly tested and abandoned in the 
United States. There is, however, at the present time (1871), a leg made by Mr. 
Marks, which he calls an India Rubber limb. The foot consists of a solid block 
of wood, somewhat smaller and shorter than the natural one, glued firmly to the 
leg at the ankle, without any moveable motion there whatever (until it breaks or 
comes apart), and common rubber is cast over the block of wood to make a foo 70 
the suitable size, which is all the rubber there is about it. Of the advantages or 
disadvantages this limb has, or of the probability of its proving a success, I do not 
purpose to speak, but simply refer to some of those that I have made legs for who 
have tried it, and whose certificates may be found on pages 46, 52 and 57. 
Leather for Artificial Limbs. 
Has been used to some extent, and it is good as far as it is needed, buij. to make 
that the principal ground work it will not answer. It was throughly dried and 
abandoned years ago, but during the war a company was organized under the 
name of the Salem Leg Company, and they advertised very extensively that they 
had something new and a superior article, consequently they sold a large number 
of them; but as their work did not give general satisfaction their business has been 
reduced to near nothing, and the last I heard they had about concluded to close 
up business. 
Artificial Limb Manufacturers have tried a large variety of material for 
their formation, and in addition to vulcanized india rubber and leather, rawhide, 
steel strips riveted together, and a composition of metals resembling tin and zinc 
have been tried, but the latest that has come to my notice is constructed of steel 
which had been prepared for hoop skirts and is woven together like a splint 
basket. 
The discoverers of these new and valuable materials for the formation of artifi- 
cial limbs are those that have never had any practical experience in the business 
before, and I think they were sincere in their belief that they had made new and 
useful discoveries in material for this purpose, and entirely ignorant of the fact 
that nearly all such materials had been tried and abandoned long before they 
thought of embarking in such business, consequently they are not to be blamed 
if they have recommended and sold an inferior article. Though some of them 
have answered a very good purpose for a considerable length of time, and by the 
flattering advertisements these comparative new manufacturers kept before the 
maimed, it is not surprising that many who had never seen them in practical use 
were induced to try one. It is certain that all manufacturers of artificial legs 
(but not arms) who have been successful and succeeded for any length of time, 
have used wood for the ground work, yet it is not true that all who have used 
wood for the foundation have succeeded in business and in making a first class 
limb, for there are many other requisites which are wholly lost sight of by the in- 
ventors of these supposed new materials for the ground work, and those wishing 
to buy the best limb, and that is the construction of the limb internally, one being 
just as essential as the other, and unless both are good the limb must eventually 
prove to not be very valuable, although if the patient has never had anything any 
better he may call it a good substitute. 
Why an Artificial Limb can be made Lighter, 
stronger and more durable out of wood and covered with rawhide is this: 
there has to be a joint in the toes, one at the ankle and one at the knee, 
besides places to attach cords, springs, &c. 
Where wcod is used and covered with rawhide for the shell and ground work, the 
shell can be made a little thicker where attachments for joints, &e., are needed, 
while in most limbs constructed of other material, heavy pieces of wood or iron 
have to reach from one joint to the other (internally) to obtain strengLh, conse- 
quently adding heft and complication without obtaining any advantageous results 
whatever. 
From the number of drawings and the somewhat lengthy specifications and ex- 
planations of my Patent Union Artificial Limbs (which I have given that they 71 
might be the better understood), one, after having seen the partial drawings and 
read the limited descriptions of other manufacturers, would naturally 
Ask, are they not very Complicated 
and more likely to get out of repair 1 1 think with the aid of the illus- 
trations and descriptions given I shall be able to convince any one that 
they are less complicated and least liable to get out of order, and that 
if from any cause whatever it should need readjusting, it can be done with less 
trouble and expense than any other first class limb manufactured ; if not, I would 
respectfully invite an inspection and comparison of the various samples of limbs 
which can be seen at my different manufactories which have been left after pro. 
curing one of me. Why they seem more complicated is because others are so par- 
tially illustrated and so slightly explained, that those unaccustomed to the busi- 
ness, are unable to get a very clear idea of their complications, and can scarcely 
ascertain how they are made or what they are composed of. On the other hand I 
have not only given a vertical sectionable view of the leg, but have given sectional 
views of the joints, and a very minute description showing very clearly how every 
part is constructed and what it is made of. 
Every good .artificial leg, for an amputation above the knee, must have three 
joints—one at the toes, one at the ankle and at the knee, and as persons who most 
frequently loose limbs as a general thing are young, venturous, energetic, laboring 
men, and the number of steps required to be taken with an artificial leg made for 
such a person before he would naturally die would be immense, and it is certain 
that when one of these joints wear so as to become a little loose, it makes a very 
disagreeable, rattling noise which is very annoying to the wearer, and warns every 
one within hearing distance that an artificial leg is worn. These facts are well 
known to those who have worn limbs made in the old-fashioned way. In the 
Artificial Limhs which have heretofore given the most universal satisfaction, the 
principle of the joints are nearly the same, the only material difference in the limbs 
is in the way the cords and springs are adjusted, and as these limbs are mostly imi- 
tations and copied from the original limbs invented by Mr. Palmer, I shall use the 
name of the Palmer limb to compare with the one invented and manufactured by 
me, not to detract anything from their former merits which have generally been 
good (as I said on 7th page), but to better illustrate my improvements. It will be 
seen by reference to Fig. 1, how the tension of the toe spring can be adjusted to 
suit the wearer, by simply turning the nut (5) over the spring (6), this is a feature 
which has never been used in the Palmer limbs or any of the imitations, neither is 
this as essential as 
My improvement in the Ankle and Knee Joints. 
The apparatus used by Palmer for the ankle and knee joints, look like 
the one I use for the knee joint when it is put together (see Fig. 2), 
with the tightening lever (E) left off. consequently I shall use my illus- 
trations to explain them and their deficiencies: The steel strap (I I), are 
the same as 1 use. but the bolt (F) I make five-eights of an inch in 
diameter to get a large wearing surface.and bore it out hollow (see G, Fig. 5) to make 
it light, while Palmer makes his only three-eights of an inch in diameter and leaves 
it solid, and as the wearing surface is smaller the bushing must wear faster, he 
puts a screw on the end of the bolt (F) opposite to the head to screw into one of the 
steel straps (1), and in the other end he puts a small set screw to keep the bolt (F) 
and steel strap I in its proper position and to keep it from working loose ; the ankle 
joint is precisely the same only the bolt F is made shorter to correspond with the 
ankle; the straps(I l)are riveted to the shell of the lower end of the leg and the bolt 
(F) passes through the foot. Now, with the millions of steps taken, and the whole 
hef t of the man and what he carries comes on this bolt only three-eights of an inch 72 
in diameter and less than two inches long, who will doubt but what the joint must 
eventually wear loose and cause that disagreeable, rattling noise so noticeable in 
the old-fashioned artificial leg 1 How, then, is this to be remedied 1 By sending 
it to the manufactory and have it repaired would be the natural remedy suggested 
by the manafacturer, or continue to bear the annoyance as it is. The knee joint 
being constructed in the same way, the same difficulty and objections arise as in 
the ankle. The straps(I I)being riveted to the upper end of the leg below the knee, 
and the bolt F passes through the lower end of the upper part, forming the knee 
joint as seen in Fig. 1. 
Now note the difference in those I manufacture. 
Fig. 3 represents the ankle joint I use, as it looks when disconnected with the 
leg. I have already before described how it is made on pages 11, 12 and 66. 
It will be borne in mind that I said the bolts S S (see Fig. 3) and the heads Z Z 
(to be seen in Fig. 6) were all brazed firm in so as to constitute one solid piece, 
consequently there are none of them that ever become loose. It is placed in the 
leg as seen in Fig. 1. T is a small piece of wood left in the leg at the ankle laterally 
to receive the bolts (S S), which holds the journal (x) firmly to the leg part, while 
the eye bolt(I)passes down through the foot and receives the nut (2). Now when the 
ankle joint wears so as to be perceptibly loose, all that is required to make it per- 
fectly tight is simply to turn the nut(2)which holds the foot close to the journal(x), 
by this arrangement any amount of wear that will ever occur can be compen- 
sated for. 
By reference to Fig 1 it will be seen how I compensate for the wear in the knee 
joint. The steel straps (I 1),being fastended firmly to the leg part (below the knee) 
and the eyebolt or tightening lever(E),after recieving the knee bolt F (see Fig. 2), 
passes up through the cross-bearing(C)in the thigh part of the leg; by this arrange- 
ment when the wear becomes visible, by tightening the nut (A) on the end of the 
eyebolt or tightening lever(E),it will compensate for aiiy amount of wear the same 
as in the ankle joint. In addition to these precautions for loose joints, the eyebolt 
or tightening lever which the knee bolt rotates in, the joints are all bushed in 
the most substantial manner, the same as other first-class limbs. 
In the Palmer kind of limbs, the tendon P is fastened and glued in the foot in 
such a manner that it can not be taken out to be repaired, only by the manufac- 
turer, and by him it is considerable trouble and expense, and it is the same with 
the tendon D, it being fastened at the lower end by passing a pin through the leg 
and tendon ; consequently, to ever remove the cords, a hole has to be made 
through the leg to extract the pins, which has been permanently glued in. Now 
note the difference in the way I put them in : It will be seen that I put them 
throngh cross-bearings, and slip a pin through the ends so that they can be 
easily taken out, repaired and replaced by any one. By reference to Fig. 4, it 
will be seen that the pins passing through the lower end of tendons ( P and Q) 
and the nut (2), are setup into the foot, and a sole (8) is fitted in so as to cover 
everything up smooth, and is held firmly in its place by a screw (9). By this 
arrangement it will be seen how easily it is to get at any of the internal machanism 
of the foot, by simply loosening the screw (9) and removing the sole (8), while 
in other limbs the covering to the foot is glued and nailed on permanently, so that 
whenever it is necessary to get at the interior of the foot the covering has to be 
torn off and a new one provided each time. This sole (8) is provided at the heel 
with a cushioning (10) made of sponge rubber, which is very soft, and is prepared 
expressly for this purpose. In order to limit the motion of the foot, and to pre- 
vent overtaxing the spring and tendon, which operate it when walking down a 
very steep hill or uneven surface, other manufacturers put an iron or brass pin 
through the leg near the ankle, so that when the foot is thrown forward in the 
act of taking a step, the upper side of the foot at the heel comes against it, which 73 
forms a stop. This pin often breaks or gets loose and causes a disagreeable 
noise. By reference to Fig. 1, it will be seen how I have remedied this annoy- 
ance. The piece of wood (T) left to fasten the ankle joint to. is shaped to answer 
this purpose, and to prevent noise. I insert a piece of rubber (U) with this and the 
cushioning on the heel (10), it entirely prevents that thumping sound usually 
heard in arrificial legs. Perhaps there has nothing been more annoying to those 
compelled to use artificial legs than the trouble and expense caused by broken 
springs. Many ways have been devised, but as yet nothing has been found that 
can always be depended upon, for metallic is liable to have flaws, and rubber used 
by elongation, will rot and lose its elasticity in the course of time. Rubber used by 
compression has been tried and found serviceable for a while, but the way it has 
been used by confining it in a tube or socket, it becomes compressed and packed 
solid and loses its sprightliness, and the final result is broken tendons, which is 
more expensive to repair than a spring. I have adopted a 
Simple and very easy kind of Spring to make, 
and one that is least likely to break, it being simply a spiral spring made 
of spring wire and used by compression. Should one ever break, I will 
furnish all that would be required, free of charge, and by reference 
to Fig. 1, it will be seen with what little trouble one could be replaced (if ever 
needed) by simply removing the nuts which hold them in position. On the 11th 
page I hav > explained how the cords or tendons used by me are made. Manu- 
facturers and those using differ in regard to the necessity of a 
while some say they are very essential, others that they are not needed, being; 
about equally divided. But what I say in regard to them I can speak from 
practical experience, as an inventor, manufacturer, and one compelled to use 
them, which no other person can do, although there are manufacturers and 
inventors who have lost limbs below the knee. On the 10th and 11th pages I 
have given some of my ideas what was required in an artificial knee joint, and on 
page 67 I explained how I make them in my Patent Union Leg. But to have the 
matter more fully understood, I claim that when a person wishes to walk fast it 
is essential to have some method of controlling the action of the leg (below the 
knee), and the eye-bolt or tightening lever E (see Fig. 1 and 2) answers the pur- 
pose admirably. It will be seen that by turning the nut A, that after all loose- 
ness is compensated for, it will create a friction on the knee-bolt, consequently a 
rigidness ir. the knee joint, which answers for a keee spring to force the i.fo 
forward (while in the act of taking a step); then when the limb begins to straighten, 
this rigidness causes an easy motion which resembles very closely the motion of 
the natural leg, thus entirely preventing that spasmodic or jerking motion so no- 
ticeable in artificial legs where a rigid knee-spring is used, and entirely does 
away with the complicated mechanism required to get a comely knee spring in- 
side of the limb. I write this well knowing that all other manufacturers, with- 
out any exception, will claim and contend that the less friction on the knee-bolt the 
better it is (and I believe they are sincere in their belief and contention). But 
from my practical experience in using both kinds, and by the satisfaction it has 
given when I have put it on those that have formerly used the knee spring, I 
know I can substantiate what I say about it, and I consider it one of the most 
useful inventions for an artificial leg for an amputation above the knee since 
the invention of the Palmer leg. In some of the certificates that I have received 
from those who are wearing limbs with an amputation above the knee, and have 
previously used those made by other manufacturers with a knee spring, tiles’- make 
special mention of my improvement in the knee joint, while others appreciate the 
superiority of the leg but do not mention that particular point. Among those who 
speak of the superiority of the knee joint in their certificates, ar* Chas. 
Knee Spring in an Artificial Leg, 74 
S. Morton (page 33), E. F. Shepherd (page 38), Frank M. Howe (page 38), J. W. 
McMillan (page 45), G. V. Stevenson (page 46), and James J. McConnell (page 49) 
Should anyone doubt what I, and those who have tried it, say about this valuable 
improvement, and are fearful about trying it, I would say that it can be used in the 
place of a spring or not, and at the same time it will always prevent the knee joint 
from rattling, and by this method 1 have a much improved knee joint without a 
knee spring. But I can and will insert any kind of spring the patient may wish 
to have. It will be borne in mind that all knee springs in general use are inserted 
in the interior of the knee, and are so arranged that it is almost impossible for any 
but a manufacturer to take one out and put it back again, or even to take the knee 
joint apart in case it should ever become necessary. If I were to advise anyone 
how to have a knee spring made to be of the most utility and convenience, it would 
be to take a light piece of elastic web and attach it to the leg just below the knee, 
then let it pass up and buckle on the straps or suspenders, which holds the leg to 
the person; in this way it will be handy to adjust the tension of the spring at any 
time to suit, and when sitting the strain on the spring or elastic web is lessened 
so as to allow’ the leg to flex back, and entirely does away with the tendency of 
the leg to straighten when in a sitting position. This elastic wreb should be attached 
to the shoulder strap just below wdiere they unbuckle in front, so a> not to inter- 
fere with the spring w hen the straps are unfastened for taking the leg off. 
On page 71 I said that m comparing my Patent Union Artificial Leg with others, 
I would select from thoso that have given the most universal satisfaction. Conse- 
quently I have omitted to say anything about an artificial 
Leg with a Lateral or Side Motion 
at the ankle joint, which has been claimed by the inventor (Dr. Douglas 
Bly) to be far superior to anything in use; but practical application of them 
has proved this to be a FALLACY. The plan of this leg looked so feasible 
that with the convincing arguments of the Doctor, I am not surprised that Sur- 
geons, committees and those having lost legs should give it their preference (which 
caused at one time a large demand for them), until it 
Was Practically Demonstrated to be Unworthy, 
• 
for I was one of them wanting a leg for my own use and regarded it with 
much favor at the time it was having its largest sales, but 1 did as every prudent 
man should, that wants a leg for practical use and comfort, which is to confer 
wdth those who have had a practical experience in using different kinds, and 
not take the statements of the manufacturers, committees and those that have 
seen some one else use them, or those that have never tried but one kind, for 
a thing may look feasible and yet put it to practical test, it may not prove 
"hat was claimed and expected. I know by practical experience, and can 
substantiate what 1 say by hundreds who have tried the experiment, that to make 
an artificial leg with the lateral or side motion in the ankle joint adds heft and 
complication to produce that which is not necessary. But suppose its advocates 
could show any advantages therefrom, 1 can demonstrate that the heft and com- 
plication would more than counter-balance it. By repairing these side motion 
limbs, I have become thoroughly acquainted with the weak parts, and will men- 
tion some of the points of failure, and I think the most of those who have worn 
them will agree with me: there will be some exceptions, of course, as some of 
them have done tolerable good service; but as a general thing these lateral motion 
legs are too heavy and short lived. The ball being small, and having two sockets 
to play in, will naturally wear so as to let the leg sideward, backward, forward, 
and in fact most every way. This is caused by there not being sufficient bearing 
surface. Any one will see that by placing this small ball between the 
foot and leg, and by cutting away to allow the foot its vibrating motion, that only 75 
a small bearing on the ball can be had; there being nothing to hold the foot to 
the leg but four cords passing up through the holes in the foot and through cor- 
responding holes in the leg. Now what mechanician or scientific man will be- 
lieve that with all the walking, working and universal wrenching about that is re- 
quired of an artificial leg, that those cords or the rest of the ankle joiut can last 
for any considerable length of time] These are facts which should be borne in 
mind when comparing my drawings and illustrations with others. 
Those wanting an artificial leg. and yet believe that a lateral or side motion in 
the ankle joint is useful or profitable, or has any advantages whatever, had better 
try the experiment for themselves and not take my word (as l am probably some- 
what partial) or the experience of others, for the most certain proof is by practi- 
cally testing it. But I would like to ask such a person, and have him answer satis- 
factorily to himself, if my patent limb were not really the best in use, how I could 
have succeeded in creating such a large and increasing demand for them in 
Detroit (the first city I opened a manufactory in) when the heretofore best limbs 
were as well known to the surgeons and those wearing them as mine are now ] or 
how I could successfully compete with the older manufacturers in Cincinnati 
where the most lateral and side motion (or what they call the Ball and Socket or 
Anatomical) legs have been made and were well known and established before I 
opened my manufactory there] And why it is that the proprietor (Dr. Douglas 
Bly) now has to have it manu'actured under some other person’s name in locali- 
ties where mine are being introduced ] And why, in Cincinnaii. where our manu- 
factories are both on one street, he has had to change his salesman on an average 
of once a year (since I commenced to manufacture there) in trying to find a man 
that can now sell that kind of a limb (in competition with mine) which he once 
had a large demand for ] Or how I could successfully compete with old estab- 
lished manufacturers in Philadelphia, which place was formerly known as the 
headquarters for artificial limbs ] 
An answer to the above questions (as I should give them) can be obtained by a 
personal interview with any of the vast number who are now using my 
Patent Union Limbs after having previously tried those made by other manufac- 
turers. 
Some might infer from what I have said about the necessity of having an artifi- 
cial limb so constructed that it could be taken apart or repaired with as little 
trouble and expense as possible, that it was a complicated piece of mechanism and 
very liable to get out of repair; but that is not so, and I believe every manufac- 
turer has tried his best t» make them strong and durable, and have them put to- 
gether as though they never intended them to be ever taken apart. 
Some manufacturers lacking experience and judgment have made them unpro- 
portionately heavy in some parts while they are weak in others, consequently they 
get a very heavy limb and yet it lacks the very necessary element of strength, 
consequently the failure in a heavy one, so that if a person choses a heavy leg he 
is sure to have a burden to carry about while he uses it, but is not sure of its 
lasting long. 
IT MUST BE BORNE IN MIND 
Tliat an artificial limb is a very nice piece of mechanism, and when a leg is made 
with all the joints, tendons, springs, &c., and large and strong enough to stand 
the hardships required for any kind of business or labor that might be required, 
and only weigh from three to five pounds, it must be well proportioned and very 
substantially made; and as I said before (page 71), that most of the artificial 
limbs made are for young laboring men (as they are the most exposed in danger- 
ous occupations) who procure them so that they may resume their former voca- 
tions and earn a living for themselves and families, it cannot reasonably be ex- 
pected that a limb furnished for such a person would last the remainder of his 76 
natural life and never need be taken apart to clean or repair, for what thing 
earthly will last always! consequently a limb should be so constructed that if any 
thing about it should ever need a little repairing, it could be done in the most 
possible shortest time and at the least expense. 
In the drawings and their explanations of my Patent Union Leg, I have endea- 
vored to make them so plain that any one can see they are not as complicated and 
are less liable to get out of repair than any other limb manufactured, and if from 
any cause whatever any part should ever need re-adjusting, every piece or part of 
the leg tliat there is any possibility of ever getting out of order, can be taken out, 
repaired and replaced without defacing or injuring it in any way whatever. Uy 
this method most any one can do most any ordinary adjusting that it might some- 
times need, as I furnish with every leg all the necessary tools for taking it apart. 
In comparing my Patent Union Leg with others, and showing wherein I have 
made improvements in their utility, durability and the advantages it has to keep it 
in order, &c., I do not wish to be understood that I intend to detract one particle 
from the merits of the many that have been really good and useful substitutes, 
but as I said (on the eighth page) that the limbs which have gained the best repu- 
tation by their merits, were invented and patented a long time ago, and as art and 
science have made rapid strides in improving all other mechanical devices, I think 
it just to suppose that the improvement in artificial limbs should advance in the 
same ratio, and, as I said before (on the 7th page) I believe I possess the requisite 
and proper qualifications for making and testing such improvements. 
Description of Apparatus for Shortened Limbs. 
At the present time there are many on whom diseases 
have wrought its baneful results, which denlands an ap- 
pliance which shall alleviate their irremediable deformi- 
ties and enable the sufferer to use and exercise the de- 
formed limb in a manner likely to conduce to health, 
ease and beauty of dress. The deformed limb below the 
knee is inserted in a light case, accurately fitted to the 
shape of the leg and ankle ; it is retained by soft leather 
bands, laced in front; the foot rests on an inclined plane, 
so as to reduce the anterior posterior distance from toe to 
heel; a boot or gaiter, full at the instep, may then be 
drawn over the whole, and pants of the usual shape and 
size can be worn and will utterly conceal the deformity. 
The artificial foot corresponds in size with the foot of the 
other leg. The artificial ankle joint obviates the exces- 
sive limping and physical strain experienced in the use of 
cork boots and stirrups; it also allows the patient to gain 
the natural length of step. It is light, strong and durable 
and when applied gives the patient the proper appearance 
in dress, length of limb and action of the foot, and enables 
him to walk a great distance without fatigue. 
Apparatus for Shortened 
Limbs. 
Repairing and Altering over Artificial Limbs 
Made by other Manufacturers. 
Those having artificial legs made by the heretofore bust (or any 
other) manufacturers, and nave been continually troubled with 
broken heel,,side and foot cords, or feet, ankles, springs, or with loose, rattling ankle joints, 
(and the rest of the leg good), can have it cut off just above the ankle joint, and my Patent 
Union Ankle Joint and foot applied and warranted, at about half the cost of a new leg. 
Those that have artificial limbs they cannot wear (caused by fitting or stump shrinking, 
or from any other cause), can have them newly and satisfactorily fitted or otherwise altered 
so they can be used with ease and comfort, by applying to either of my manufactories, 
As my workmen are men that have had a long experience in working for the (heretofore) 
best artificial limb manufacturers in America, I am prepared to repair, fix (in any way or 
shape), or alter over all kinds of artificial limbs of every manufacturers’ make, at short notice, 
on reasonable terms, and in the most durable and satisfactory manner, at either of mv manu- 
factories. J. A. FO&T.ER. 77 
ARTIFICIAL HANDS AND ARMS. 
The attention of the ingenious before, and more especially during 
and since the war which we have passed, has often been directed to 
the construction of some substitute for a lost arm—something that 
would be beautiful, graceful; useful and substantial—the result of 
which has produced a large variety of artificial arms. Some have 
been good substitutes, while others have been entirely worthless. But 
as my mind and time has been continually occupied with the improvement anc 
manufacture of my Patent Uuion Artificial Leo since its invention and intro- 
duction, I have made no experiments in trying to produce an arm which I coulc 
call my own invention, consequently I have been a disinterested spectator, anc 
can judge impartially of the merits or demerits of the different experimenters 
productions, for I have had ample opportunities for witnessing their application 
since I commenced to mannfacture artificial legs. Having attended many fares, 
Government examinations and conventions where artificial legs and arms were on 
exhibition, it gave me a great many additional opportunities to see a great variety 
of arms when new, when in use, and alter they had been worn more or less, and 
with my practical mechanical judgement, I think I have good qualifications foi 
selecting the best arm for general use. 
The patentees and manufacturers of artificial arms have never been to the ex- 
pense of so fully illustrating and explaining their advantages, &c., as the manu- 
facturers of artificial legs, neither are they willing to pay others for doing it in 
order to increase their sale, which must be my excuse for saying so much about a 
leg and so little about the arm which 1 consider the best for all practical purposes 
and have made arrangements to manufacture and sell, consequently 1 will quote 
their own language in reference to their utility and how they are constructed ; 
“The arm is fastened to the body by straps attached to cords from the front and 
back of the arm, passing under and over the other shoulder and buckled. The 
cord attached to the rear strap is placed just back of the arm, and thence passing 
into a shell of the upper arm and down over a pulley at the elbow to a connection 
with the forearm, the contraction exerted by the simple throwing forward of the 
stump, or even the shoulder, elevates the arm. The cord attached to the strap in 
front enters the front shell of the arm and passes under a pulley at the elbow joint 
and thence passes midway through the forearm and connects with the thumb and 
one or all of the fingers. This power is the reverse of the raising cord, enabling 
the wearer to throw out the arm at any angle from the body. The thumb and 
fingers, which are kept closed by means of springs in the hand, can be opened at 
will, in any position, by the forward or downward motion of either shoulder. 
The lightness of this arm is a very important consideration, especially where 
amputation has left a very short stump. 
The subject whose stump is three or more inches in length from the shoulder 
joint, and retains a healthy degree of force and rigidity, can. with this arm, at will, 78 
raise the artificial hand to his mouth and forehead, and, in fact; he has perfect 
control of the elbow joint, to throw it forward and back at will, or to hold it in 
any position he choses. 
Arm for Amputation below the Elbow. 
The hand and fingers are rarde in such form as to imitate nature’s work, and 
the wearer can pick up his hat, place it on his head, pick a cigar up from the floor 
and place it in his mouth, carry a pail of water, or a valise or overcoat in travel- 
ing, hold the lines while driving horses, and assist the other hand in carrying where 
two hands are indispensable. By securing a knife, fork pen, nail 
brush or other implement into the part of the hand which is pre- 
pared for it, he can cut his food and convey it to his mouth, 
write with respectable clearness, wash the remaining hand, &c 
A flexed position of the arm is secured at the option of the 
wearer for cases of amputation above the elbow .joint, as in 
carrying an extra garment, a bucket or basket in marketing— 
indeed in almost anything where the sound arm would be used in 
that position. An intelligent and persevering person will hardly 
find a limit to its usefulness. The inventor of these combitations 
lays great stress upon this fea- 
ture of the arm, for it readily 
enables the wearer to use all 
the strength and ability he 
possesses to accomplish the 
various processes of useful 
labor. 
The mechanism is strong 
and reliable, enabling the 
wearer to carry as much on 
the artificial as he would ordi- 
narily wish to carry on the sound arm. 
Should any wish to inquire of persons wearing arms furnished by me, I would 
respectfully refer them to George M. Pratt, Kalamazoo, Mich., whose arm is am- 
putated near the shoulder (Mr. Pratt is a conductor on a passenger train running 
from Kalamazoo to South Haven, Mich.), John A. Apgar, Lebanon. N. J., whose 
arm is amputated below the elbow, or to J. R. Snyder, banker, of Chenoa, McLean 
Co., 111., whose daughter I furnished with an arm for an amputation above the 
elbow. 
is cut represent* an arm for an amputation above 
the Elbow. 
It often happens that a poor man loses an arm and is not able to obtain the best 
kind of an artificial one, and wishes to get some cheap substitute, one that will 
stand the rough and tumble of every-day out door work. To such I would say 
that he can have a good substitute for considerable less cost. This is what we call 
a stump arm. It is made strong and durable, and so constructed that the wearer 
can insert any kind of an instrument for rough, heavy labor, such as becomes neces- 
sary for any out door laborer to perform. JAMES A. FOSTER. 
STUMP ARMS. 79 
IT OFTEN OCCURS 
That some ingenious person invents and patents a useful device, and from a lack of 
energy, or. perhaps, a pressure of other business, neglects to introduce it into 
general use, and wants such a remuneration for his invention that no one cares to 
buy and be to the trouble and expense of bringing it to the notice of the public on 
the terms the inventor is willing to give, consequently it rests in obscurity for a 
Considerable length of time, and perhaps forever. Thus a great many very useful 
and valuable inventions are never known outside of the archieves of the patent 
office, the inventor, his attorney, and perhaps a few personal friends, while many 
very inferior inventions intended to answer the same purpose have been owned or 
purchased by more energetic men and vaunted before the public as being superior 
to anything known, thus causing large sales for the inferior while a much superior 
article rests in obscurity. Such has been the fate of a patent on an Artificial 
Arm which I have recently bought the right to manufacture and sell. 
The Special Advantages 
Of this Arm is in the method of actuating the fingers, and its peculiar advantages 
for being converted from the most useful, desirable and exquisite dress arm. to a 
stump arm, thus combining all the advantages of a beautiful and dressy substi- 
tute as well as those of a stump arm, to which can be fitted any kind of tools which 
the wearer may find necessary to use in his daily occupation, thus rendering it 
not only a showy but a very useful substitute for a natural limb. 
There are other artificial arms manufactured and so constructed that the hand can 
be removed for using tools, &c., but with them, when the hand is removed, the 
tendon which operates the fingers has to be unhooked and rehooked each time, be- 
sides loosening the catch which holds the hand to the arm, while the hand to the 
arm which I manufacture can be separated at the wrist by simply pressing on a 
knob, removing it without deranging the mechanism for actuating the fingers, 
which is a very valuable consideration. 
Perhaps one of the most novel features about this arm is in imparting motion to 
the fingers (see Fig. 1, illustrating an artificial arm for an amputation 
above the elbow). The movement of the fingers are actuated by a pres- 
sure pad (as seen in cut) located above the elbow joint on the inside of 
the arm, which, being pressed against the chest, opens the fingers, and, 
by relaxing the pressure, shuts them again ; yet 
this arm is susceptible of having the fingers 
operated in the usual way and retain the other 
advantages which it possesses. 
Fig. 1. 
Fig. 2 represents a substitute for 
an arm amputated below the elbow. 
The mechanical movements are the 
same as those described in Fig. 1, 
although the pressure pad is not 
Fig. 2. 80 
Fig. 3 is a view of a part of the mechanism of a hand, which 
its capable of all the various movements and purposes to which 
artificial limbs can be applied. 
Fig. 4 shows the - arm with the 
hand removed, thus changing it from 
the dress, to a stump arm with a very ingen- 
iously constructed self-adjusting grasping 
instrument attached for grasping such tools 
for hard labor as is required to be held more 
firmly than springs in a hand can be made to 
perform. It consists of a peculiarity curved fork, to which is jointed a third 
prong, the short arm of which is provided with a thumb screw for clamping the 
object to be grasped between the prong and the fork. This instrument can be re- 
moved by simply pressing on a knob (the same one used to remove the hand), and 
any number of tools and implements, such as chisels, screw-driver, knife, fork, 
hook, a brush for washing the other hand with, can be fitted, or indeed any tool 
or implement which the wearer may find useful in his daily occupation, thus ren- 
dering it capable of being applied to many uses, for which a mere dress arm from 
the delicacy of its parts is unfitted. 
Fig. 3. 
Fig 4. 
911 Chestnut St., Philadelyhia, Pa. 
60 West Fourth St., Cincinnati, Ohio, 
or 172 Jefferson Avenue, Detroit, Mich. AN OLD SAYING. 
An old saying that “necessity is the mother of invention,” has proved a 
true one in regard to the invention of my 
PATENT UNION ARTIFICIAL LIMBS, 
for had I not been compelled to want one for my own use, and failing to find 
one to satisfy my expectation, the invention of my Patent Union Artificial 
Limbs would never have originated with me. 
These limbs were ottered in competition with all others then in use, some 
of which done good service and have been an honor to their inventors, but like 
all other articles which have been improved, artificial limbs invented and man. 
ufaotured years ago, have to give way to the latest and most improved. 
In the year 1858 I became convinced that I should sooner or later have 
one of my limbs amputated, on account of a white swelling on my knee. I 
then commenced to inform myself where I could get the best substitute,—see 
page 13. 
In February, 1860, I had my leg amputated above the knee. 
In June, 1862, I went to buy me an artificial limb, but for a good reason 
I did not.—See page 14. 
In November, 1862, I made the first artificial limb I ever used.—See 
page 15. 
In March, 1863, I went to serve my time with an artificial limb manu- 
facturer, and while there in that capacity, repairing all kinds artificial 
limbs, of every manufacturers make, and saw where they failed, and the result 
was the invention of my Patent Union Artificial Limbs. 
In Novomber, 1864, I opened the first office and manufactory to manu- 
ture my patent Union Artificial Limbs, at Detroit, Michigan. No artificial 
limb manufacturer before ever met with such gratifying success, for in the 
short space of time which they have been in use, they are now in use in almost 
every State in the Union. As the demand for them increased I opened offices 
and manufactories to meet the exigency, until I now have manufactories at 
Philadelphia, Pa., Cincinnati, Ohio, Detroit, Mich., and am solicited by many 
to' open offices in other places. 
JAMES A. FOSTER. JAMES A. FOSTER’S PATENT UNIONILEG. 
Fig. 1. 
Fig. 2. 
Fig. 5. 
Fig. 6. 
Fig. 3. 
Fig. 4.