Empty tin for Fennings ointment, by Alfred Fennings, 1940-1970

Rubbed into the skin to soothe skin irritations, Fennings’ ointment was recommended for eczema, nettle rash, boils, burns and scalds.

Alfred Fennings (d. 1900) opened his first shop – the Golden Key pharmacy – in London in 1840. Highly adept at advertising and marketing, he went on to create a very successful business producing a range of products which became popular ‘over the counter’ medicines bought by generations of shoppers. Although several Fennings’ products are still sold today, some of his earlier claims – including ‘cures’ for cholera and whooping cough – were highly dubious. On his death, trustees took over the running of the business and the profits went to a children’s charity. (Pictured here with other Fennings’ products).