The Association is Founded
Back to Founding of AATS
No one had shown any interest. That was the severely disappointing
facet of Dr. Willy Meyer's participation at the Annual Meeting of the American
Medical Association on June 18, 1913, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dr. Meyer had
delivered the fifth and last paper before the Surgical Section. All four
speakers preceding him evoked considerable discussion - Leonard Freeman
reported on Bone Clamps, John D. Murphy on Elbow Trauma, C. H. Mayo on Thyroid
Operation, and J. E. Thompson on Gangrene of Foot. Dr. Meyer's paper, entitled
"Extrathoracic and Intrathoracic Esophagoplasty in Connection with Resection of
the Thoracic Portion of the Esophagus for Carcinoma"1, presented not
only the first successful esophageal resection for cancer, as performed by his
associate Franz Torek, but also a clear and concise review of the then
suggested and available methods of treatment. It encompassed all the methods
being discussed today, including replacement by stomach, small and large
intestine, plastic skin tubes and prostheses in both the extra and
intrathoracic position. Minutes of the AMA meeting contain this brief note: "5.
Willy Meyer, M.D., New York, 'Extrathoracic and Intrathoracic Esophagoplasty
...' No discussion."2
It was difficult to accept such total lack of response toward
innovations designed to help break down the last fortress of resistance to the
surgeon's hand - the thorax. Much of the indifference was due to an attitude of
total hopelessness toward ever achieving safe thoracic surgery, much to
complete lack of contact with thoracic problems and their proposed solutions.
Dr. Meyer determined, somehow, to rectify this situation. Thus it was lack of
enthusiasm that served to ignite the spark which developed, in time, into the
first Society for Thoracic Surgery formed in the world.
Willy Meyer had long nurtured the dream of an
exciting future with eventual and eventful triumph in the field of Thoracic
Surgery. Now he began to solidify in his mind a plan for imparting to others
the ardent faith he had in man's ability to break down the barriers against
safe and effective surgical procedure in the thorax. Back home in New York, on
a Sunday morning walk in Central Park with his son, he spoke of his
disappointing experience and commented: "Herbert, we must have our own little
Society at which these important problems can be freely and thoroughly
discussed." Willy Meyer, man of vision, never abandoned this concept, and a few
years later it became reality.
The next four years served as a period of gestation during which Willy
Meyer's plan grew and assumed the characteristics of a national association
dedicated to the advancement of knowledge for the benefit of all mankind. Since
at this time in America, so few surgeons devoted much effort to the thoracic
field, over-all experience was minimal and had produced very few papers.
Therefore, in order to broaden the field, he envisioned a society "for Thoracic
Surgery" rather than "of Thoracic Surgeons". The plan was to include the
internist, anesthetist, physiologist, radiologist, as well as the surgeon and
others in order to provide for maximal contribution of individual observations
since so few possessed a broad base of experience in the new field. It was to
be a forum where sincere and dedicated men, groping for answers to barely
formulated questions, could teach each other with results of their own trials
and experiences. Basically, anyone who could contribute to the development of
safe thoracic surgery would be a welcome member of this forum. Since large
series of cases in this undeveloped area were unlikely, men whose opinions were
based upon careful observation of single cases would be welcome. Above all,
there must be opportunity for "full and free discussion". The concept of "free
discussion" became a dominant attribute and this privilege was to be preserved
at all costs.
Since one single, individual would likely have courted failure in an
attempt to organize a national society right from the start, Dr. Meyer
conceived the idea of forming a small local group which could then assume a
more forceful attitude in establishing the national organization. During these
interim four years, a small group of his New York friends had already
contributed worthily, under Dr. Meyer's dynamic leadership, toward defining the
nature of the organization which was destined to be born under their guiding
hands.
Opening
paragraphs of Dr. Meyer's paper delivered at the AMA Annual Meeting of June 18,
1913.
Reactions of most contemporaries, however, toward formation of a new
Society dedicated to thoracic surgery were pessimistic, to say the least. The
substance of their arguments, gleaned from letters, is summarized as follows:
Only a few topics could be discussed in such an organization. Empyema,
aneurysm, bronchiectasis and tumors of the chest wall seemed to cover the
spread. Of these, empyema seemed to be the only subject for which there were
any real possibilities of development. Aneurysm as an expression of vascular
surgery was a failure. Surgery was leading nowhere in the confused picture
involving bronchiectasis and lung abscess. Cancer of the lung wasn't even
considered worthy of mention. It was unlikely that there would ever be a
practical surgery of the esophagus. Surgical treatment of consumption was
dubbed a fad. Everyone should know that one cannot operate on the heart. In two
or three years everything will be said and the society will die for lack of
interest.
Such were the reactions of many "well-informed" doctors of the day,
despite the considerable progress that had already been made by the
enterprising few. But it was for the very purpose of reversing these attitudes
that the Society was to be established, so that, in an age not yet blessed with
instantaneous communications, men could learn to know what was being done, what
had been proven, and what was no longer "impossible."
As the year 1917 began to take form, while war clouds lay heavy on our
nation moving rapidly toward the gaping chasm of full-scale conflict, Willy
Meyer and his dedicated group had reached the point where they were ready to
take the first formal steps toward realization of their dream. 1917 hardly
presented a climate conducive to such action, but the courage and determination
of these men refused to be coerced into abandoning their plan at the behest of
an oppressive world situation.
On February 20th of that year, Dr. Willy Meyer
welcomed at his office, in his home at 700 Madison Avenue, twenty of his New
York friends for the purpose of founding a Society. He had two specific aims in
mind which were inseparably connected. The first was to found The New York
Society for Thoracic Surgery, to which all promptly agreed and which was soon
accomplished at the meeting. The second, and more important task, was the duty
of this group to issue at some later date, invitations to a larger group,
selected from across the United States and Canada, consisting of those who had
demonstrated sufficient interest in thoracic surgery to collaborate in founding
a Society of national scope.
The minutes of this highly propitious meeting, as recorded by the then
acting secretary, Dr. Kenneth Bulkley, read as follows:3.
On the evening of February 20, 1917, on invitation
of Dr. Willy Meyer, a meeting was held at his office, 700 Madison Avenue, for
the purpose of forming a New York Society for Thoracic Surgery. The following
men, representing all specialties interested in the surgery of the thorax
except anaesthesists and internists, had been invited by Dr. Meyer to be
present:
1. Dr. John Auer, Rockefeller Inst.
2. Dr. Kenneth Bulkley, Asst. Vis. Surg. Bellevue. 104
East 81st St.
3. Dr. Eugene W. Caldwell, Presbyterian Hosp. 480
Park Ave.
4. Dr. Armistead C. Crump, Attg. Phys. G-E, Pres. O.P.D. 20
W. 50 St.
5. Dr. Max Einhorn 20
E. 63 St.
6. Dr. Hermann Fischer, Adj. Surg. Germ. Hosp. 111
E. 81 St.
7. Dr. Nathan W. Green, Attg. Surg. City; Assoc. A.S., St.Luke's 152
W. 57th St.
8. Dr. Henry H. Janeway, Attg. Surg. Memorial 375
Park Ave.
9. Dr. James H. Kenyon, Asst. Surg. Fordh. Babies, St. Francis
& Neurol. Inst., Assoc. Surg. Hudson St.
57
W. 58th St.
10. Dr. Adrian V. S. Lambert, Vis. Surg. Presb., 168
E. 71st St.
11. Dr. Howard Lilienthal, Vis. Surg. Bellevue & Mt. Sinai 48
E. 74th St.
12. Dr. William H. Luckett, Attg. Surg. Bellevue & Harlem Hosp. 18
W. 87th St.
13. Dr. Walton Martin, Attg. Surg. St. Luke's, 151
E. 63rd St.
14. Dr. Sam. J. Meltzer, Rockefeller Inst. 13
W. 121 St.
15. Dr. Willy Meyer, Attg. Surg. German & P-Gr. Hosp. 700
Madison Ave.
16. Dr. Martin Rehling, Adj. Surg. German & P-G 209
E. 61st St.
17. Dr. Wm. H. Stewart, Radiogr. Fordham, Harlem, German Hosps. 222
W. 79th St.
18. Dr. Franz J. A. Torek, Attg. Surg. Skin & Cancer; German 1021
Madison Ave.
19. Dr. Martin W. Ware, Adj. Surg. Mt. Sinai, 27
E. 81st St.
20. Dr. Sydney Yankauer, Assoc. Surg. Mt. Sinai 616
Madison Ave.
The Meeting was called to order at 9 o'clock by Dr. Meyer who welcomed
the guests and briefly outlined the object of forming a Society for Thoracic
Surgery. Dr. Meyer felt that it was but natural, with the widening of the Medical
horizon, that small groups of physicians have banded together here and there to
form small private societies for the study of particular specialties. They did
so particularly for the opportunity of free discussion of questions of mutual
interest, questions which often hardly evoke the attention or interest of the
average medical man. It has thus happened that here in New York a great many
such special medical societies exist.
Names of participants at
February 20th meeting, as dictated by Dr. Meyer, recorded on his own
stationery.
To add another one seemed, at first glance, rather burdensome, possibly
even superfluous. Why should not this specialty be discussed before the
meetings of other societies? However, it requires knowledge and personal experience
to enjoy the discussion of such subjects after a hard day's work. One cannot
bring up with advantage all the subjects, which might interest us here, before
the Surgical Society or the Surgical Section of the Academy of Medicine. These
questions could be discussed - as freely as possible - (possibly one subject an
evening) among a group of men thinking and working in the same direction,
unhampered by time, unrestricted, and with the possibility of continuation, if
so desired, at the next meeting.
With these objects in mind, Dr. Meyer ventured to gather a group of men
to band together to form a New York Society for Thoracic Surgery. The response
to his invitation was unanimous and enthusiastic, and the meeting tonight is
the result.
Dr. Meyer then outlined briefly the points which seemed necessary for
discussion.
It was the consensus of opinion of those present that a society for
Thoracic Surgery be formed and after due consideration the name "The New York
Society for Thoracic Surgery" was adopted. Dr. Willy Meyer was nominated,
seconded, and elected permanent Chairman and Dr. Kenneth Bulkley
Secretary-Treasurer.
Dr. Meyer then called attention to the fact that 20 men had been asked
to form the Society, and requested an expression of opinion as to the limitation
of membership. Dr. Lilienthal suggested that the number be limited to 20, and
Dr. Einhorn suggested that there be 30 members. Dr. Torek favored the smaller
number. A motion, made by Dr. Meyer, and seconded, that the membership be
limited to 25 was duly carried.
Dr. Meyer asked for a discussion on the adoption of a constitution and
by-laws. It was the unanimous opinion of all-present that there be as little
formality as possible and that for the present, at least, the Society dispense
with either a constitution or by-laws.
Dr. Meyer suggested that one of the first functions of the New York
Society for Thoracic Surgery should be the formation of The American
Association for Thoracic Surgery, and spoke of the possibility of forming such
a Society at the time of the meeting of the American Medical Association in New
York in June 1917. Dr. Yankauer suggested that the Chairman appoint a Committee
of 3 or 5 to select the names of possible members for the American Society. Dr.
Meyer emphasized the importance of including representatives of all specialties
in any way associated with thoracic surgery among the names selected. Attention
was called to the fact that the membership of the American Gastroenterological
Association was limited to 125.
It was moved by Dr. Martin and the motion seconded by Dr. Lilienthal
that a committee be appointed to select the names of members for the American
Association. Motion carried.
Moved by Dr. Green and seconded by Dr. Yankauer that this committee
also select the names of 5 New York men to complete the Roster of the New York
Society for Thoracic Surgery and that the names selected by this Committee be
referred to the present members for ratification. Motion carried.
Moved by Dr. Yankauer and seconded by Dr. Ware that this committee be
appointed by the Chair. Motion carried.
Dr. Meyer suggested that the Society hold two meetings a year,
preferably on the fourth Tuesday of November and March. This suggestion placed
in form of a motion by Dr. Meyer, seconded by Dr. Ware, and carried.
Moved by Dr. Lilienthal, duly seconded and carried that the next
meeting take place March 27, 1917.
Moved by Dr. Lilienthal that no papers shall at any time be presented
before the Society but that the Scientific Session shall consist of the
presentation of cases, case reports, instruments, or X-ray plates, etc. Motion
seconded by Dr. Torek. Motion carried.
A motion was made that the Scientific Session begin promptly at 8:30
P.M. and officially stop at 10:30 P.M. It was agreed that the starting time
should be 8:30 but the motion to limit the length of the Scientific program was
defeated.
After discussion a motion was made by Dr. Yankauer, and seconded, that
cases, case reports, instruments, etc., for presentation at a stated meeting be
placed in the hands of the Chairman at least 2 weeks before the date of
meeting; that from 'the material submitted the Chairman select at his
discretion, with due consideration of precedence and topic for discussion,
approximately 5 reports; and that the program so selected by the Chairman be
mailed by the Secretary at the earliest possible date to each member of the
Society. Motion carried.
Moved by Dr. Stewart, and seconded, that the place of next meeting be
decided by the Chair. Motion carried.
First page of February 20th, 1917, minutes as they appear
in NYSTS records.
Dr. Meyer's residence at 700 Madison Ave. His Fierce-Arrow
automobile stands in front of his home and awnings shade his windows.
Dr. Meyer's office in his home at 700 Madison Ave. where
the February 20th meeting was held.
The question of publicity was then discussed, but no formal motion
placed before the meeting. It was the opinion of those present that no report
of the formation of The New York Society for Thoracic Surgery be sent to any
medical journal and that the proceedings of the Society and its discussions be
not publicly recorded.
Motion to adjourn.
Collation.
Groundwork for a national society had been laid. Willy Meyer's dream
had moved a giant step toward fulfillment. Primary features of the Society were
now definite, its character and purpose were clear. The next steps to be taken
were specific and soon became fact. A Committee on Members was appointed,
consisting of Drs. Green, Janeway, Lilienthal, Martin, Meyer, and Bulkley.
Within a month, four more names were added to the list of NYSTS Charter
Members.
With but one exception, these twenty-four members of the New York
Society became Founding Members of The American Association for Thoracic
Surgery. The lone exception was Eugene W. Caldwell, Radiologist to Presbyterian
Hospital, electrical genius, who had devoted his life to perfecting "Roentgen
ray" diagnostic techniques. Soon after the February meeting, the Army called
him to duty; but before that time, excessive exposure to radiation had marked
him for early death, a martyr to scientific zeal.
Among the guests present at the founding were 13 surgeons, 3
internists, 2 radiologists, 1 physiologist, and 1 bronchoscopist. In age they varied
from 32 to 66, with an average of 48 years. They had been in practice from 8 to
37 years, with an average experience of 23 years per member. All were in active
practice in New York City. Their institutions of affiliation were the German
Hospital, soon to be known as Lenox Hill Hospital, Mount Sinai Hospital,
Presbyterian Hospital, Bellevue Hospital, St. Luke's Hospital, General Memorial
Hospital, Babies' Hospital and The Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research.
All except 4 were graduates of American schools. All except 4 were affiliated
with national societies reflecting each individual's scope of interest. All had
demonstrated sincere interest in thoracic problems, several had already made
important contributions.
The newly-formed membership committee quickly set to work reviewing
current medical literature of the United States and Canada in their search for
those who had shown a lively interest in problems confronting a thoracic
surgeon. As the date for the first stated meeting of the New York Society
approached, this committee was able to report that it had completed a list of
forty-two names. The first scientific session of the New York Society for
Thoracic Surgery took place on March 27 according to plan. Dr. Bulkley recorded
the proceedings as follows:
STATED MEETING
March
27th, 1917
Meeting called to order at 8:30 by Dr. Meyer at the
home of Dr. Howard Lilienthal, 48 East 74th Street.
The following members were present: Dr. Bulkley, Fischer, Green,
Lilienthal, Leckett, Martin, Meltzer, Meyer, Rehling, Stewart, Torek, Ware, and
Yankauer.
Reading and adoption of minutes of previous meeting.
The subject of the evening was announced by the Chair as:
BRONCHIECTASIS.
Presentation of Patients: -
A. Dr. Lilienthal
1. Patient
age 16 operated 2 ½ years ago by resection of portion of one lobe for lung
abscess. Recovery.
B. Dr. Meyer
1. Case of
rt. upper lobe bronchiectasis operated 5 years ago. Recovery.
2. Case
age 22 operated 4 years ago for bronchiectasis 5 years after pneumonia.
Ligation of pulmonary artery. Marked improvement.
3. Case
operated 3 months ago, bronchial fistula still persisting.
C. Dr.
Green
1. Tack in
lung. Removed by lower bronchoscopy. Previously reported before N.Y. Surgical
Society.
Reports of Cases: -
A. Dr. Yankauer
1. Report
of a case of bronchiectasis of entire rt. lung treated by lung irrigation. A
series of Radiographs of this patient were shown by Dr. Stewart and the
apparatus used was demonstrated by Dr. Yankauer.
The Chair then asked for a discussion on the diagnosis between
bronchiectasis and lung abscess. Discussion by Drs. Lilienthal, Yankauer,
Meyer, Fischer, Ware, Meltzer, Stewart, and Martin.
At a brief business meeting the Chair announced that on a motion duly
made, seconded, and carried, he had appointed the following as the Committee on
Members:- Drs. Green, Janeway, Lilienthal, Martin, Meyer, and Bulkley. The
following report of a meeting of this Committee was then read:
A meeting of this committee was held on the afternoon of March 23rd. At
that time the following names were proposed to complete the roster of the New
York Society for Thoracic Surgery. Dr. Alexis Carrel of the Rockefeller
Institute, Dr. John A. Hart-well, Director of the Second Surgical Division
Bellevue Hospital, Dr. Chas. N. Dowd, Visiting Surgeon Roosevelt Hospital, and
Dr. Abraham O. Wilensky, Adj. Attg. Surg. Mount Sinai Hospital.
The names of the following men were submitted for the American
Association for Thoracic Surgery:-
SURGEONS
Dr. Samuel Robinson Rochester,
Minn.
Dr. Chas. L. Scudder Boston,
Mass.
Dr. George H. Heuer Johns
Hopkins, Baltimore
Dr. Robert T. Miller Pittsburgh,
Pa.
Dr. R. C. Coffey Portland,
Oregon e
Dr. Arthur A. Law Minneapolis,
Minn.
Dr. E. Willis Andrews Chicago,
Ill.
Dr. N. B. Carson St.
Louis,-Mo.
Dr. Wm. S. Halstead Baltimore,
Md.
Dr. Rudolph Matas New
Orleans
Dr. Fred W. Parham New
Orleans
Dr. Karl Connell New
York City
Dr. K. A. O. McKenzie Portland,
Oregon
Dr. Fred Murphy St.
Louis, Mo.
Dr. Leonard Freeman Denver,
Colo.
Dr. Fred B. Lund Boston,
Mass.
Dr. Eugene H. Pool New
York City
Dr. Jos. Ransohoff Cincinnati,
Ohio
Dr. B. M. Ricketts Cincinnati,
Ohio
Dr. Jos. M. Flint New
Haven, Ct.
Dr. Wm. Lerche St.
Paul, Minn.
ANATOMISTS
Dr. Bern B. Gallaudet New
York City
PHYSIOLOGISTS
Dr. Burton Opitz New
York City
Dr. Yandel Henderson New
Haven, Ct.
EXPERIMENTAL WORKERS
Dr. Melchior von Eberts Montreal,
Canada
ANAESTHETISTS
Dr. Wm. Branower New
York City
Dr. Walter M. Boothby Boston,
Mass.
Dr. L. S. Peterson New
York City
PATHOLOGISTS
Dr. W. G. McCallum Baltimore,
Md.
INTERNAL MEDICINE
Dr. Harlow Brooks New
York City
Dr. Norbert Stadtmuller New
York City
Dr. Morris Manges New
York City
Dr. Evan M. Evans New
York City
TUBERCULOSIS SPECIALISTS
Dr. Jas. Alex. Miller New
York City
Dr. E. R. Baldwin Saranac
Lake
Dr. Lawrason Brown Saranac
Lake
Dr. E. S. McSweeney Sea
View Hosp.
Dr. Walter L. Rathbun Otisville,
N.Y.
Dr. A. H. Garvin Ray
Brook, N.Y.
RADIOLOGISTS
Dr. Kennon Dunham Cincinnati,
Ohio
ENDOSCOPISTS
Dr. Chevalier Jackson Pittsburgh,
Pa.
Dr. Harris P. Mosher Boston,
Mass.
The committee requested that the Chairman and Secretary draw up a
letter inviting the above men to meet to organize a National Association for
Thoracic Surgery and to submit this letter for approval to the members of the
New York Society for Thoracic Surgery at the next meeting.
This letter has been written and is hereby submitted to the Society for
its approval. It is as follows:-
Dear Dr. John Doe,
On February 20, 1917 the New York Society for Thoracic Surgery was
formed for the purpose of free exchange of views and experiences of such
members of our profession who take active interest in the evolution of this
chapter of medical science.
The membership of the Society is limited to twenty-five at the present
time. It comprises principally surgeons and representatives of a number of
specialties that border on thoracic surgery.
One of the outspoken purposes of creating the New York Society for
Thoracic Surgery has been to ask men all over our States who are known for
their interest and work in diseases of the thorax to combine and form "The
American Association for Thoracic Surgery".
It is hoped that the specialties of anatomy, physiology, pathology,
internal medicine inclusive of pulmonary tuberculosis and gastroenterology,
surgery inclusive of experimental workers, roentgenology, broncho- and
esophagoscopy, and anaesthesia will be represented in the American Association.
The coming meeting of the American Medical Association in New York City
is considered a favorable opportunity to bring together many of these men.
The Chairman of the New York Society for Thoracic Surgery hereby
invites you to attend a luncheon at the Hotel Waldorf-Astoria on Thursday, June
7th, 1917 at a quarter after one o'clock at which it is expected "THE AMERICAN
ASSOCIATION FOR THORACIC SURGERY" will be organized.
Kindly inform the Secretary, Dr. Kenneth Bulkley, 104 East 81st Street,
New York City, at your early convenience whether you will be able to attend.
Very
truly yours,
The
New York Society for Thoracic Surgery
Committee: -
Dr. Henry H. Janeway
Dr. Nathan W. Green
Dr. Howard Lilienthal
Dr. Walton Martin
Dr. Willy Meyer, Chairman
Dr. Kenneth Bulkley, Secretary
The names of Drs. Carrell, Hartwell, Dowd, and
Wilensky were announced for election. On a motion made by Dr. Stewart and duly
seconded and carried, the Secretary was instructed to cast one ballot for these
four names.
The Secretary was also instructed to cast one ballot for the 42 names
of the men to whom invitations to form the American Association for Thoracic
Surgery were to be sent.
Motion to adjourn.
Collation.
Thus the first letter of invitation had been drawn up and approved. A
membership roster had been proposed and the 42 doctors listed on it soon
received their invitations. Willy Meyer's dream had moved several steps closer
to becoming reality.
A follow-up letter was mailed on May 26 to the 42 names on the roster
and to the members of the NYSTS. It read:
May 26, 1917
Dear Doctor: -
The Meeting to which you have been invited June 7th, at the Waldorf Astoria,
will be held at the appointed time, and it is hoped by the members of the New
York Society for Thoracic Surgery that the National Association will be
launched at that time.
Again hoping that you will be able to be with us at that time.
Very
truly yours,
New
York Society for Thoracic Surgery
Nathan
W. Green
Acting
Secretary.
Committee: -
Dr. Henry H. Janeway
Dr. Nathan W. Green, 152 West 57th Street
Dr. Howard Lilienthal
Dr. Walton Martin
Dr. Willy Meyer, Chairman
Dr. Kenneth Bulkley, Secretary
On June 4, this final letter was sent to all prospective members:
June 4, 1917.
Dear Doctor: -
The Luncheon of the New York Society for Thoracic Surgery will take
place in the Banquet Hall, first floor of the Waldorf Astoria, on Thursday,
June 7th, 1917, at One P.M.
Very
truly yours,
New
York Society for Thoracic Surgery
Nathan
W. Green
Acting
Secretary.
Since the secretary, Dr. Bulkley, had sailed for
military service in France by this time, Dr. Nathan Green became acting
secretary of the NYSTS.
The decision to schedule this meeting concurrent with that of the
American Medical Association was made in order to provide for the largest
possible attendance. Declaration of war was generally considered imminent and
an acute shortage of transportation and hotel accommodations was already being
felt. War came on April 6, 1917. During that period between establishment of
the New York Society for Thoracic Surgery and Founding of the American
Association for Thoracic Surgery, our nation officially entered the "War to end
all Wars".
Despite all unfavorable conditions, the luncheon meeting took place at
the Waldorf Astoria on June 7, 1917. Of the 66 individuals invited, 23 attended
this meeting which was called to order by Dr. Meyer. The presence of only five
doctors from outside New York indicates the extent of travel difficulties,
since many had signified acceptance of the invitation to join the organization.
Following are the names of those who were in attendance:
Chas. N. Dowd Samuel
Robinson
Max Einhorn Wm.
Lerche
H. Fischer Martin
W. Ware
M. Manges Franz
Torek
Howard Lilienthal W.
H. Stewart
S. J. Meltzer Walton
Martin
W. H. Luckett Willy
Meyer
Martin Rehling Walter
L. Rathbun
Sidney Yankauer Kennon
Dunham
Leo S. Peterson James
Alex. Miller
B. Merrill Ricketts Nathan
W. Green
A. A. Law
For reasons previously cited, in addition to various
personal reasons, many were unable to attend but expressed the wish that they
be included among the Founding Members if the Association were actually formed.
The following letter, written by Dr. Rudolph Matas is exemplary of this group:
July
4th, 1917
Dr. Nathan W. Green
Acting Secretary N. Y. Society for Thoracic Surgery
152 W. 57th St.
New York City.
Dear Dr. Green;
I greatly regretted my inability to attend the meeting of the Society
for Thoracic Surgery, but owing to illness at home and the great pressure of
other business, I was not able to leave N.O. I am very much interested in the
purpose of the Society and only regret that distracting effects of the present
war conditions must necessarily divert the time and thought of many earnest
workers into other channels, which, I fear, will interfere with the
organization of an active National and even local Society. However, if the
movement to establish such a society is to be continued in spite of the adverse
conditions, now prevailing, I will be glad to be considered among its most
earnest sympathizers and coworkers. I would be glad to subscribe to the
Transactions if any are published and to cooperate in any way that I may at
this distance.
With kindest regards and best wishes, I am,
Yours
very truly;
R.
Matas
The Register in the
Archives of the Association was signed by these 21 members of the group which
attended the Waldorf Luncheon Meeting.
Dr. Nathan Green recorded the proceedings for the historic organization
meeting of The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. His minutes read as
follows:
On June 7, 1917, on invitation of the New York Society for Thoracic
Surgery, a luncheon was given at the Waldorf Astoria, for the purpose of
forming the American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Men of the following
specialties Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, Internal Medicine inclusive of
pulmonary tuberculosis and gastroenterology, Surgery inclusive of experimental
workers, Roentgenology, Broncho- and Esophagoscopy and Anaesthesia were
invited.
In calling the meeting to order Dr. Meyer said; Gentlemen: When, on
February 20th of this year, the New York Society for Thoracic Surgery was
formed for the purpose of a free exchange of views and experiences of such
members of our profession as take active interest in the evolution of this
chapter of medical science, it was stated that one of the objects in founding
the New York Society for Thoracic Surgery was, to create a committee for the
purpose of selecting names of such colleagues all over our States as are known
for their interest and work in the surgery of the thorax, in order to found the
American Association for Thoracic Surgery.
This object, it almost seems, will be realized today. More than half of
those invited declared their willingness to join the Association, and the
majority of them are here, gathered in this room. Eight others have sent their
regrets, but wish to have their names presented for membership. Three who have
accepted, are at the front in England and France. A fourth one, the
enthusiastic, splendid secretary of the New York Society for Thoracic Surgery,
Dr. Kenneth Bulkley, is in Paris with Dr. Jos. A. Blake, in the midst of hard
work. His place is temporarily filled by Dr. Nathan W. Green, who so
courteously allowed this burden to be added to his daily duties.
Gentlemen: Thoracic Surgery, as you all know, has made rapid advances
in America. In many places; Hospitals, Medical Schools and Universities, the
interest in it is intense. New and important observations are made almost
daily. We must have a place to discuss them.
We need not wonder, if the average medical man often seems bored when
the subject of thoracic surgery comes up for discussion at our medical meetings.
This matter does not carry particular interest, except one has made a study of
it. Hence, those interested must be among themselves! When founding the New
York Society for Thoracic Surgery we were particularly fortunate in having so
many men right on the spot who are active in this latest and last branch of
operative surgery. Our Society, which is a private one, started with a
membership of thirty. We could easily make it double the number and more,
within 24 hours.
However, we do not want to exchange our views with New York colleagues
only. We want to discuss matters, at least once a year, with you gentlemen from
all over the States, with interest and aims similar to our own.
The members of the New York Society are profoundly grateful to you for
having answered our call to come to this meeting. We all bid you a hearty
welcome!
I make a motion that the American Association for Thoracic Surgery be
formed; the motion was moved, seconded and carried. The Association has been
formed.
The first, Gentlemen, is the election of the Officers. A President,
Vice President and Secretary-Treasurer. I offer the name for President, of a
man who is leading in this work, it is Dr. Samuel J. Meltzer. It has been moved
seconded and carried that Dr. Meltzer be elected to President. Dr. Meltzer: I
thank you for the nomination, but I would ask you to reconsider your motion and
in my place put the name of Dr. Samuel Robinson. Dr. Robinson: As Dr. Meltzer
has already been elected, I don't see how he can do this but I appreciate the
compliment he has paid me. The Secretary was then asked to cast a vote. I would
ask Dr. Meltzer to occupy the seat of President.
The next election was for Vice President. It has been moved, seconded
and carried that Dr. Willy Meyer be elected to Vice President.
The next election was for Secretary Treasurer. It has been moved,
seconded and carried unanimously that Dr. Nathan W. Green be elected Secretary
Treasurer.
Dr. Meyer then made a motion, that in as much as we have three officers
you will empower these three officers to select four members who, with them
will make a council. This council to conduct the business of the first Session
Meeting in 1918, to select the place of meeting, make the program, etc. The
motion was moved, seconded and carried.
The members of the New York Society for Thoracic Surgery and all those
present are founders of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery. The New
York Society for Thoracic Surgery have invited about thirty and these who have
accepted I should think are members and we need not elect them as these
gentlemen who have accepted are, just as we are, members. The President
considered this correct.
The Secretary wishes to have the names of Drs. Von Eberts, Brown,
Scudder, Baldwin, Murphy, Carson and Corbett, Garvin presented for membership.
This was moved and seconded that the above are members of the American
Association for Thoracic Surgery.
Dr. Ricketts asked: What are the dues of this Association or is this to
be left to the officers. A motion was made that this be left to the officers to
decide.
Dr. Meltzer then made a motion that a vote of thanks be offered to Dr.
Meyer for all the trouble he has taken to entertain us. Dr. Meyer: I am very
glad to have given the time to the New York Society for Thoracic Surgery
because the American Association is now an absolute fact.
Dr. Meyer then made a motion to adjourn. It was moved and seconded.
(Signed)
Nathan W. Green
Sec'y.
Officers elected at the
Waldorf Luncheon, June 7, 1917: Dr. Samuel J. Meltzer, President.
Dr. Willy Meyer, Vice
President
Dr. Nathan W. Green,
Secretary - Treasurer
As indicated in the minutes, members of The New York Society for
Thoracic Surgery, which organization had issued the original invitation, and
those invited individuals who had accepted and were present, were to be
considered charter members of The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. It
was also proposed and approved, that those who had accepted the invitation but
were unable to attend the luncheon meeting were to be accepted as charter
members. Thus the following individuals were informed, by the note quoted
below, of the formation of the Association and their election to membership in
absentium.
Dr. Abraham O. Wilensky
Dr. Charles L. Scudder
Dr. Eugene H. Pool
Dr. Fred T. Murphy
Dr. Robert T. Miller
Dr. E. S. McSweeney
Dr. Adrian V. S. Lambert
Dr. James H. Kenyon
Dr. Henry H. Janeway
Dr. Chevalier Jackson
Dr. George J. Heuer
Dr. John A. Hartwell
Dr. Albert H. Garvin
Dr. Edmond Melchior von Eberts
Dr. Armistead C. Crump
Dr. J. Frank Corbett
Dr. Norman Bruce Carson
Dr. Alexis Carrel
Dr. Kenneth Bulkley
Dr. Lawrason Brown
Dr. Harlow Brooks
Dr. William Branower
Dr. Walter M. Boothby
Dr. Edward R. Baldwin
Dr. John Auer
Dr. E. Wyllys Andrews
July 15, 1917.
My dear Dr. -
The Council of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery takes
pleasure in informing you that the Association was formed on Thursday, June
7th, 1917, and upon that occasion you were elected a member.
Kindly signify your acceptance to the Secretary.
Very truly yours,
American Association for Thoracic Surgery.
Secretary.
Dr. Samuel J. Meltzer, Pres.
Dr. Willy Meyer, Vice-Pres.
Dr. Nathan W. Green, Sec. and Treas.
152 West 57th Street, New York City
Although the charter roster for the AATS was completed within a
relatively short time, this was not accomplished without a certain amount of
perseverance. Many doctors accepted but indicated their probable inability to
attend meetings due to distance and travel restrictions. Some reiterated
previously stated misgivings about the future, commenting that lung abscess,
bronchiectasis, empyema and chest wall tumors comprised a narrow field and
discussion would soon falter due to repetition. Many again questioned the
wisdom of the effort during the tangled times of war.
Dr. Chevalier Jackson wrote that he disclaimed any intent to be known
as a thoracic surgeon. His letter of July 17, 1917, addressed to Dr. Green,
reads in part, "I do not like to sail under false colors and under no
circumstances would I think about operating upon the thorax". However, after
Dr. Green replied, emphasizing the wide selection of members from all fields of
work, Dr. Jackson accepted the invitation.
Dr. Freeman, Dr. Fred Lunde, and several others declined membership
because they belonged to about all the societies they could carry at the time.
Rufus Cole declined with the statement that he could not contribute much but
hoped that the Association might be the means of clearing up a number of
obscure points, particularly in pulmonary pathology.
Before leaving The New York Society for Thoracic Surgery, which had by
now admirably served its purpose of acting as launching pad for the AATS, let
us insert a word as to its own development. It still lives as a vigorous
organization, meeting three times a year, with membership far exceeding 100. Of
particular interest is the fact that six of the original "New York Thoracic"
Founders eventually became Presidents to the "American Thoracic".
