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Nineteenth-century Massachusetts coroner inquests

P F Mellen¹, E C Bouvier

¹Second General Hospital, Landstuhl, Germany.

The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology

|September 1, 1996

Summary

This study reveals 19th-century Massachusetts coroner records, detailing their administrative, financial, and evolving medicolegal investigative functions, including early use of medical testimony.

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Area of Science:

Forensic Science
Medical History
Legal History

Background:

The office of coroner originated in England centuries ago, initially as financial officers, evolving into medicolegal investigators.
Early Massachusetts coroners operated under English common law, later transitioning to statutory frameworks.
Historical studies on early coroners and inquests are infrequent, leaving many operational details unknown.

Observation:

A collection of previously unpublished 19th-century Massachusetts inquest records was examined.
These records provide granular insights into the practical functioning of coroners during this period.

Findings:

The records detail administrative and financial aspects of coroner duties.
They illuminate the social conditions prevalent during inquests.
Evidence indicates an increasing reliance on medical and toxicologic testimony in these investigations.

Implications:

This research offers a unique window into the historical development of medicolegal investigation in the United States.
Understanding past coroner functions provides context for contemporary forensic practices.
The findings contribute to the sparse historical literature on early American coroner systems.

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