During the 1860s prosthetic limbs became big business. Promotional pamphlets included testimonials from their wearers, like the following from Lieutenant George Warner (27th Reg. Massachusetts Volunteers), which appeared in Reporter of the New Patent Artificial Leg, Published by D. DeForest Douglas, Inventor and Manufacturer (Springfield, MA: J.F. Tannatt, 1863).
Dear Sir, March 14th, 1862 and Sept. 22d, 1862, are two eventful periods in the history of my life. At the memorable battle of Newbern, N.C., while in command of a company, my right leg was carried away by a grape shot. As soon as was practicable I sought your skill and aid, and on the 22d of September commenced wearing your unequalled Patent Artificial Leg.
Previous to this time, I was besought and besieged by leg makers in New York, to procure their substitutes, even offering them at a less price than yours.
In examining the various kinds of Legs, I could readily distinguish the superiority of yours, by the difference of construction from others. I could easily see it is the most durable, reliable, and substantial, and the most natural in its movements, of any Leg invented.
That you have been eminently successful in its application in my case, I will say, I walk anywhere, and that without a cane. I have been hunting all day at a time, loading and firing my gun with the greatest facility and precision. I have walked as far through the woods, tramping up hill and down, over logs and through the brush, as my comrades.
I find the operation under all circumstances, natural, and perfectly reliable. The fitting and bearing are perfectly easy. Its mode of adjustment is superior to anything I have ever seen. It is finely ventilated, keeping the stump cool and healthy. My friends are surprised to see with what ease and freedom of motion I walk. They are unable to detect the artificial from the natural foot.
I would most earnestly and cheerfully advise my comrades who have lost their legs in defence of our country, to avail themselves of your unequalled Artificial Leg, knowing that by so doing they will realize their anticipations, and be treated in the most successful manner.