Introduction: Frederick Augustine Rupp, M.D. (1876-1934) was a turn-of-the century Philadelphia physician who in his book, Letters of a Physician to his Daughters, broaches an essentially untouched subject of that time- what do you tell your children about sex? In his precautionary tale, he delves into this uncomfortably relevant topic in attempts to educate virtuous women on the perils of accepting a suitor without knowledge of his health status. Dr. Rupp published and disseminated this literature in attempts to abolish the sexual double standard and provoke chastity from young men as a means to eradicate syphilis and gonorrhea. Currently an almost unknown author, Rupp wrote several books on history, this one specifically pertaining to sex and education.
Methods: All published writings on or about Dr. Rupp including all of his published writings were sought for detailed analysis. His 1910 publication Letters on “the Great Black Plague” formed the foundation of this work.
Results: Dr. Rupp was a general practitioner who dealt with venereology at a time that paralleled the origin of the field of Urology itself. In his lifetime, Rupp was totally ignored by many great historical bibliographers, such as Howard A. Kelly, who current authors speculate might have known of him since both were from Philadelphia. Current authors recognize the significance of this small, 96 page work as it demonstrates a transition in public thinking and acceptance of delicate yet pertinent matters of health. As such, this work pertaining to advice for his two daughters is truly a gem and deserves appropriate resurrection.
Conclusions: Frederick Rupp was a general physician and pioneer in the public acknowledgment and fight against venereal disease. While his work has failed to obtain modern traction, it certainly appears to be a piece of significant importance within its written era. In a personal capacity, little is known of Dr. Rupp. Rupp’s first major work of literature is much more heralded, though also obscure, and is entitled John Montcalm, Heretic: A Tale of the Maryland Hills. Rupp’s Letters contains a compilation of three letters, the first letter outlined the perils of venereal diseases. The second was in response to questions from the two rather intuitive daughters. The third letter was intended for parents of other daughters as well as sons. The final letter is where he directs parents of young women and men alike to demand chastity of both sexes as a tool to eradicate these unnecessary consequences of youthful folly. All in all, Rupp’s Letters is a pivotal piece of literature on the age-old, but previously ignored, topic of what to tell your children regarding sexual activity.
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