Here is no declaration of new principles, for only eight months after the opening of the institution in September, 1866, the following statement had been publicly made: SHM 212.1
“The notions which many entertain of a ‘water cure’ are very erroneous and calculated to prejudice and mislead the minds of many candid individuals against such institutions. They suppose that water is the only agent used in the treatment of disease, which is far from being correct. But on the contrary, in an institution like ours, water is only one of the agencies used to aid nature in restoring the sick. ... SHM 212.2
“It is our aim in conducting the health institute to bring to our aid, in the treatment of disease, all the means which are calculated to insure the safest and speediest possible cure. We do not intend to have any lack on our part in making available all modern improvements in treating disease on true hygienic principles.”—The Health Reformer, April, 1867. SHM 212.3
Despite the weaknesses and imperfections of the work and workers, it had, under the blessing of God, made progress; and the new medical staff only built well upon a strong foundation that was already laid. Furthermore they had the advantage of profiting by the mistakes as well as by the wisdom of the former directors of the institution. SHM 212.4