Doug and Aleta Pottenger
On October 14th the Monrovia Historical Museum received two distinguished guests. Doug Pottenger and his wife Aleta came bearing some gifts for the Pottenger Sanitorium display at the museum. Doug is the great-great grandson of Francis Marion Pottenger Sr. (1869-1961), founder of the Monrovia Sanitorium which bore his name. They came bearing three gifts: A silver mechanical pencil inscribed with Dr. Pottenger’s name on it, a crocheted cloth piece with the family name, and a framed photo with Dr. Pottenger and his line of descent.These items will be a fine addition to the exhibit.
Dr. Pottenger’s Pen
Anyone wishing to understand Monrovia’s history should learn something about the Pottenger Sanitorium. In the first half of the 20th century tuberculosis (TB) was a widespread disease with no real cure. Sanatoriums were developed to treat TB patients, and there were many of these in Southern California with its mild and dry climate.
Pottenger Crochet Piece
Monrovia’s Pottenger Sanitorium was considered among the best. Founded by Dr. Pottenger in 1903 and in operation until 1955, it was located on the 500 block of North Canyon Blvd. The Pottenger Sanatorium treated notable patients in those years. Rodolfo Chiari Robles, President of Panama in the 1920’s was a patient as was Manuel Quezon, President of the Philippines. Lorna Moon, a Scottish author and Hollywood screenwriter was a patient. Actor-comedian Mabel Normand, who co-starred with Charlie Chaplin and Fatty Arbuckle in numerous Hollywood silent films, was treated there.
The Pottengers viewed the exhibit, took some pictures, and then we showed our guests the HIstoric Homes Exhibit. Doug and Aleta generously donated $3000 for the new exhibit, and for this we are thankful.
The Pottengers viewed the exhibit, took some pictures, and then we showed our guests the HIstoric Homes Exhibit. Doug and Aleta generously donated $3000 for the new exhibit, and for this we are thankful.
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