Several physicians from the area have treated Montezuma residents throughout the town's history. The first was Dr. Nathan Wood who lived in Conquest and later in nearby Throop's Ward Settlement.

Dr. Job May was probably the first resident physician to live in town. He settled here some time prior to 1814. May was known as an excellent physician who practiced medicine for more than 40 years.

His practiced in his residence, which he built here in 1825 when the Erie Canal was completed.

During that time, Montezuma was a prosperous and thriving town, and the early pioneers of the town often met at May's to discuss the health issues that were of great concern during that time.

He died in 1875, and is buried in Savannah's Crusoe Cemetery. Clifford Jones purchased May's property in the 1890s to rebuild the residence into a hotel with a third-story ballroom. The third-story burned in 1956, and after the fire, it was completely removed.

The Clifford House still exists as a well-known restaurant today, which is operated by Christy and Bruce Schmitt.

Other physicians were, Dr. George W. Fitch who came from Onondaga Hollow around 1822 and Dr. William K. Wheat from 1832 to 1866. Dr. C.E. Chase and Dr. E.W. Crispell served the town in the late 19th century.

Both of their homes were involved in a fire in 1885 which totally destroyed Crispell's house. Later, in the early 1900s, Dr. Harry Burdick practiced in town for many years. These doctors often made personal house calls in times of need.

Even as late as 1989, Dr. Robert Kalet, who grew up and lived in Montezuma, made a house call to attend to my father before he passed away.

There will be an opportunity to learn of another area doctor from our neighboring town, Savannah. The Montezuma Historical Society will celebrate its first-year anniversary at the annual dinner and meeting on Sunday, June 10, at the Clifford House in Montezuma.

Guest speaker will John Spellman, historian and life-long resident of Savannah. Spellman will step back through the curtain of time to play the character of Savannah physician, Dr. William H. Sweeting. We will enjoy learning about Dr. Sweeting's education, practice, his house calls and the historical events of his day including the discovery of his Flag Salt Remedy.

This medicine, made from the root of the flag, which is so plentiful in our area, was used to treat headaches, neuralgia, colds and fatigue.

Spellman is very knowledgeable of area history and has written two local history books and several articles. He also has collection of glass items produced from the Clyde Glassworks and has exhibited his collection throughout the northeast.

The program is open to the public. Dinner will be a family-style meal, and the cost is $12 for members and $14 for non-members. Please call 776-8632 for reservations by Sunday, June 3.

Cheryl Longyear is historian for the town of Montezuma. She can be reached at 776-8632 or e-mail montezumahistorian@tds.net