On June 10, 1947 – as the American Medical Association was meeting in Atlantic City, N.J. – one group of physicians held a separate, game-changing gathering all their own. Determined to create an organization that would support their work, these intrepid, innovative doctors launched the American Academy of General Practice (AAGP).

On Oct. 3, 1971, the AAGP officially became the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).

Remembering the dates is important as we celebrate the AAFP’s diamond jubilee, its 75^th year. But to truly understand where we’ve been and where we’re going, it takes more than dates and numbers. It takes artifacts and stories, photographs and recordings. It takes the AAFP Foundation’s Center for the History of Family Medicine (CHFM).

“It’s important to preserve history so we can see how far we’ve come and understand the evolution of medicine in general,” says Crystal Bauer, MLS, CHFM manager. “Artifacts showcase the benefit of the Center – the oldest artifact we have is ‘Family Medicine,’ a book from 1789.”

As she hones in on materials that highlight the 75 years of the AAFP, Bauer notes that the CHFM archives hold everything from a hard hat worn at the 1999 groundbreaking ceremony for the AAFP headquarters to a fully stocked military doctor’s flight bag. There are treasure troves of photographs, books, and medical memorabilia. You’ll even find the unexpected – such as a penicillin mold, donated by Sir Alexander Fleming when he attended Scientific Assembly in 1954.

The CHFM artifacts and archives are yours to enjoy! If you’re in the Kansas City area, tours of the CHFM are once again available by appointment. To arrange your visit, email Bauer at CBauer@aafp.org.