COLUMBIAN CENTINEL, Boston, Feb. 20, 1796

• 1st native American dentist
• Josiah Flagg advertisement

A front page "Act" of the Mass. legislature is signed in type by the governor: Samuel Adams.
Also on the front page is an ad for: "Dr. J. Flagg, Surgeon Dentist" with details. Kane's "Famous First Facts" lists Flagg as the first native-born American dentist.
Four pages, damp staining, discrete archival mend at the interior spine.

Background: Josiah Flagg (1737–1816) was an early American dentist, often regarded as the first native-born American to practice dentistry professionally. Based in Boston, Flagg trained under British dentists and became known for his innovations in dental instruments and techniques. He is credited with designing one of the first specialized dental chairs, which featured an adjustable headrest and an arm extension to hold tools—a major advancement for patient comfort and dental efficiency at the time. In addition to his dental work, Flagg was involved in civic life during the Revolutionary era, serving as a patriot and supporting the cause of American independence. His pioneering contributions helped lay the foundation for professional dentistry in the United States.