The “Early History of the North Carolina Medical Society” by John Wesley Long offers a comprehensive account of the formation and development of the state’s medical community. The narrative begins in the late 18th century, highlighting the challenges faced by North Carolina in distinguishing trained physicians from unqualified practitioners. Early attempts to organize the medical profession were made as early as 1790, with the state legislature approving a special act in 1799 to create a corporation titled “The North Carolina Medical Society.” However, this initial effort faded by the early 1800s, leaving a gap in the state’s medical organization until the mid-19th century.

In 1849, a pivotal moment occurred when a group of physicians convened in Raleigh to re-establish the Medical Society of North Carolina. Dr. Edmund Strudwick was elected as the first president, and the society’s objectives focused on advancing medical knowledge, elevating professional standards, and promoting public health. This revitalized society emphasized the importance of formal medical education and ethical practice. The society’s efforts led to significant milestones, including the establishment of a Board of Medical Examiners in 1859, granting the authority to license physicians and regulate medical practice in the state.

The society’s influence extended beyond licensure. In 1858, it launched the Medical Journal of North Carolina, which, despite interruptions due to the Civil War, resumed publication in 1940 as the North Carolina Medical Journal. The society also advocated for public health measures, such as the registration of vital statistics, and played a role in the development of medical education in the state. Over time, the society’s membership grew, and its impact on the medical profession and public health in North Carolina became increasingly profound.

Through Long’s detailed account, readers gain insight into the foundational years of the North Carolina Medical Society, understanding its pivotal role in shaping the state’s medical landscape. The society’s journey reflects the broader evolution of medical professionalism and public health advocacy in the United States during the 19th century.