Rene Caisse and Essiac
Bracebridge was the home of Rene M. Caisse who, for over 50 years until her death in 1978, treated patients with a variety of ailments including cancer, with an herbal tea which she called Essiac (Caisse spelled backwards). For many years she fought to have the medical establishment formally acknowledge the efficacy of the treatment. While the formula for Essiac is no longer a secret, claims about its effectiveness as a cancer cure continue to be debated. The story about the life and work of Rene Caisse continues to fascinate and intrigue.
The Library maintains a collection of published and archival materials about Rene Caisse and Essiac. Items in the Circulating Collection, including a package of newspaper and magazine clippings about Essiac, may be borrowed. Patrons living outside of Muskoka should submit an Interlibrary Loan Request through their local library. Some material on Essiac forms part of the Non-circulating MUSKOKA COLLECTION which is designated FOR USE IN LIBRARY ONLY. Patrons should request use of these items at the Reference Desk.
Essiac Archives
In 1994 Mary McPherson, who had worked closely with Rene Caisse for many years, donated her personal collection of documents and memorabilia to the Library. That year in an affidavit submitted to the Town of Bracebridge, Mary McPherson set out in her own handwriting the accurate formula and exact method of preparation for Essiac.
The collection of documents consists of 4 boxes of correspondence, photographs, clippings, reprints and patient testimonials. The archive includes information about RMC Kidney Tablets formulated by Rene Caisse to treat kidney ailments. The archive is available for consultation in the Library. Please ask at the Reference Desk for the RENE M. CAISSE FINDING AID. Copyright and privacy restrictions may apply to some material.
The memorabilia were given to THE BRACEBRIDGE HISTORICAL SOCIETY. Interesting artifacts from the Rene M. Caisse Cancer Clinic and some of her artwork are on display in an exhibit, which commemorates her life and work. Visit the display at WOODCHESTER VILLA (15 King St., Bracebridge) which is open to the public during July and August.
Walking Tour
Visitors to Bracebridge may wish to purchase BRACEBRIDGE PASTIMES HERITAGE TOUR GUIDE at the CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. Take the 1.5 km Rene M. Caisse Walk around town viewing the landmarks associated with her life and work in Bracebridge.
Bracebridge was the home of Rene M. Caisse who, for over 50 years until her death in 1978, treated patients with a variety of ailments including cancer, with an herbal tea which she called Essiac (Caisse spelled backwards). For many years she fought to have the medical establishment formally acknowledge the efficacy of the treatment. While the formula for Essiac is no longer a secret, claims about its effectiveness as a cancer cure continue to be debated. The story about the life and work of Rene Caisse continues to fascinate and intrigue.
The memorabilia were given to THE BRACEBRIDGE HISTORICAL SOCIETY. Interesting artifacts from the Rene M. Caisse Cancer Clinic and some of her artwork are on display in an exhibit, which commemorates her life and work. Visit the display at WOODCHESTER VILLA (15 King St., Bracebridge) which is open to the public during July and August.