American Veterinary Medical History Society

CURRENT ACTIVITIES, PROJECTS & PROGRAMS

The American Veterinary Medical Association is a small but active organization "dedicated to the diffusion of veterinary history". This slogan was adapted from the subtitle of the first veterinary journal published in the United States in 1855, the American Veterinary Journal, that was "dedicated to the diffusion of veterinary knowledge".

Anyone interested in the history of veterinary medicine is encouraged to join us. We welcome participation at any level.

ANNUAL MEETINGS WITH SPEAKER PRESENTATIONS & EXHIBIT BOOTH - Since 1978, members have convened for an annual meetings held in association with the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Conventions in various cities across the United States and Canada. In addition to a business meeting, there are speaker presentations on history topics and an educational exhibit booth

STUDENT ESSAY CONTEST - Veterinary students at veterinary colleges in the United States, Canada, and West Indies are encouraged to enter the annual J. F. Smithcors Student Veterinary History Essay contest. Four prizes in honor of Dr. Elizabeth Atwood Lawrence are awarded. The contest was established in 1991 to enable students to learn more about their new profession by researching and writing about a veterinary history topic of their choice.

HERITAGE PRACTICE REGISTRY - The Registry of Heritage Veterinary Practices includes veterinary hospitals and clinics that have been in continuous operation and service to their communities for 50 or more years regardless of owner, location, and name change.

ORAL HISTORY PROMOTION - AVMHS promotes and supports oral history interviews to be conducted, recorded, and transcribed with senior and other notable veterinarians. These practitioners have witnessed significant changes in the practice of veterinary medicine over the years and have many valuable experiences to share with future generations.

MUSEUM GUIDE - Our guide to veterinary museums and historical exhibits across the country is intended to assist travelers and encourage the preservation of antique instruments, memorabilia, and artifacts.

TIME-BITES - This series of short historical stories, called Time-Bites, are published exclusively for the benefit of the thousands of veterinarians and veterinary students who are members of the Veterinary Information Network (VIN).[They are not available to the public.]

PUBLICATION REPRINTING - The Society also identifies and encourages transcription and/or reprinting of "classic" out-of-print veterinary history books, pamphlets, and other printed items.