About the Society
The History of Anaesthesia Society was founded in 1986. Its purpose is to promote the study of the history of anaesthesia and related disciplines and to provide a forum and social ambience for discussion among members.
The society normally holds a two day Summer meeting and a one day Autumn meeting. The society has held joint meetings with the Section of Anaesthesia of the Royal Society of Medicine, the Association of Anaesthetists, the American History Association, and the Royal Society of Chemistry. Proceedings of the meetings are published and all members receive a copy.
The Society has supported various projects connected with the history of anaesthesia. It funded the restoration of the gravestone of Sir Frederic Hewitt and has contributed towards the restoration of the Simpson grave in Edinburgh. Donations have been made in connection with the Hickman exhibition in Ludlow, and to the Erasmus Darwin museum in Lichfield. In commemoration of Joseph Priestley's researches into oxygen and nitrous oxide a garden seat was presented to Bowood House. The Society funded the conservation of the Casebooks of John Snow, which are held in the library of the Royal College of Physicians. The Society has reprinted Dr Barbara Duncum's book 'The Development of Inhalation Anaesthesia' and printed 'Essays on the History of Anaesthesia', based on the earlier volumes of the Proceedings.
Membership is open to any persons over the age of 18 years who is interested in the study of the history of anaesthesia. Applications are considered by Council in accordance with the constitution. An application form can be obtained from the Membership Secretary or is available to download.
The society normally holds a two day Summer meeting and a one day Autumn meeting. The society has held joint meetings with the Section of Anaesthesia of the Royal Society of Medicine, the Association of Anaesthetists, the American History Association, and the Royal Society of Chemistry. Proceedings of the meetings are published and all members receive a copy.
The Society has supported various projects connected with the history of anaesthesia. It funded the restoration of the gravestone of Sir Frederic Hewitt and has contributed towards the restoration of the Simpson grave in Edinburgh. Donations have been made in connection with the Hickman exhibition in Ludlow, and to the Erasmus Darwin museum in Lichfield. In commemoration of Joseph Priestley's researches into oxygen and nitrous oxide a garden seat was presented to Bowood House. The Society funded the conservation of the Casebooks of John Snow, which are held in the library of the Royal College of Physicians. The Society has reprinted Dr Barbara Duncum's book 'The Development of Inhalation Anaesthesia' and printed 'Essays on the History of Anaesthesia', based on the earlier volumes of the Proceedings.
Membership is open to any persons over the age of 18 years who is interested in the study of the history of anaesthesia. Applications are considered by Council in accordance with the constitution. An application form can be obtained from the Membership Secretary or is available to download.
