Since its first use as an anesthetic by  JY Simpson in 1847, chloroform enjoyed great popularity as an inhalational anesthetic for nearly 80 years. Reservations about its safety could not halt its soaring popularity. Very serious side effects including fatalities following its use were ignored and its charmed life was supported by royalty and leading public figures. This article details the reprieves enjoyed by the anesthetic until its final rejection by the scientific community.