8.R.2.1 Science vs. Humanity: Where Is the Line?

Fortune’s Bones tells the story of an enslaved man whose skeleton was preserved after he died so that it could be used for the study of human anatomy.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Is it acceptable to use real human skeletons as models for doctors and scientists to study?

• Yes

• No

What was Fortune's status in 18th-century Waterbury, CT?

• A free landowner

• An enslaved person

• A wealthy merchant

• 1. A traveling artisan

Who was Fortune's enslaver, and what was his profession?

• Mrs. Davis, a domestic

• Mr. Johnson, a farmer

• 1. Dr. Preserved Porter, a surgeon and bone setter

• Dr. Smith, a lawyer

1. What did Dr. Porter do with Fortune's body after his death in 1798?

• He cremated the remains.

• 1. He donated it to a medical school immediately.

• He used the skeleton for anatomical training.

• 1. He allowed Fortune's family to bury him.

What name was given to Fortune's skeleton after his identity was lost by the Porter family?

•  Skipper

• John

• Bonesy

• Larry

When was "Larry the skeleton" removed from display at the Mattatuck Museum, and why?

• In the 1950s, due to lack of space.

• In the 1960s, because it was too old.

• In the 1970s, as it was deemed disrespectful and inappropriate to display human remains.

• In the 1980s, after a new exhibit was opened.

Who was instrumental in initiating the search for Fortune's identity in the early 2000s?

• The museum director

• Maxine Watts, former president of the local NAACP chapter

• 1. A local historian

• A university professor

Why was a death certificate required for Fortune's burial in Connecticut?

• 1. It was a state law for burying human remains.

• It was a museum policy.

• It was requested by Fortune's descendants.

• It was needed for historical records only.

What significant event happened at the State Capitol before Fortune's funeral?

• 1. A press conference was held.

• Fortune became the first non-elected official and person of color to lie in state in the Rotunda.

• A memorial service was held.

• 1. A new law was passed in his honor

Where was Fortune finally buried?

• In a private family plot.

• At St. John's Episcopal Church.

• 1. Riverside Cemetery, alongside the original settlers of Waterbury.

• At Howard University.