The independent press. (Abbeville C.H., S.C.) 1853-1860, 1859-01-28
[Erom tie Colnnbtu Cdroiinian.1 |
South Coroiiha Medical Associate,

1n Tie Jfte.6ers of the South Carolina Jfcc,;ca,
AssGeidffon, ofthc District Societies, ord of the
Medical Profession file Sfctr.
Gentlemen: Nine years ago the South Caro-.
lima Medical Association wns inaugurated un-
der the most favorable n,lspices and with tho
prospect Of becoming an institution of good TO
the public md TO the profession, and the means
"fefecsing essential service to the scientific and
social advantage Of all Of us MS individuals. II
has done good service, but its mectings nre NOT
properly attended.
1t were work of supcrerrogation to occupy
your auchtion with my elaborate effort to
"nunciate villa: is palpahl. to the most superb
c'nl reflection, that confederation of kindred
minds inibucd with kindred f.clince, impulses
and interests, in the great md noble cnuse of
sduention, science humanity and social econo-
'ny, u wide and permanently valuable inHu.
shee IN the community.
Where, in the large and expanding area Of
human knowledge in any department of cul-
ture, is there q more important conviction that
in union is strength. than in the medical pro.
fsssion Z In what branch of science do we look
more anxiouslv for the accumulation ofindivid
ual experience in the results ofdny observa-
tion Z Where is there more extended field
for tho cultivation Of learning and practical
knowledge than among those, the principles Of
whose profession nre the lphahct Of all science
Where can you find more lahorers in the same
cause 40 we'll prepared for collecting, co:npnr-
grcss-the evidence of mental power in the re.
cords Of analytical observation and syntlie teal
induction / sny it proudly. and with no fear
Of being charged with arrogance, that 10 pro-
fes.ion of humanity enjoys n richer Inheritance
Of knowledge higher temporal concern TO
man, than we have received from the intelcc.
tual and phianthropc professors of medicine,
who have illustrated the science and learning
of the eras in which they have laLored. The
world admits 1t, and history records the tri
umpss mud blessings 10 our race ofthe fathers
of our respected calling.
desire, however, onl to present to Your
notice, the simple fact that the State Medical
Association of South Carolina WAS organized for
wise and useful purposes Why is it not more
generally supported in its claims by the mem
hers of the profession throughout the State
All agree That it is highly important institu.
tion but we meet annually, with compare.
lively n few who have enjoyed the psasura-
ble advantages Of previous meetings, whic
numbers who have associated themselves rs
nominal members remain nj home, with luke.
warmness unbecomlng proper regard for du
ty. 1t Is true, the duties of n medical prac
toner make It difficult always to leave his prac
tice. but for IN object Of such abiding mpor-
tancc, arrangements can usually be made by
mutual interchange Of ethical civii,ies, that
every neighborhood may he represented at one
annual meeting. The arIuous obligations Of
inccssant occupation need occasion relaxation
to give rest to mind and body, and new cur.
rent Of pleasurobe thought is beneficial to
young and old, to promote mental vicor Oh the
resumption of ordinary labor.
Without more than the suggestion of the
value of our federntive reunion, let me urge
upon all serious and united effort to rally to
and yivify the meetings Of the Association. Two
years since the constitution WAS amended, so
that the appointment Of delegate from local
society constitutes him member for TINT year,
and he is not Obligated to continue permanent
1y n member unless he desires it. lie is not
liable. therefore, to any charges for non, atten
dance. Matters of Importance will be prescn-
ted to the meeting, on the 2l February next, at
Charleston, which induce me respectfully to
appeal to the profession for full representa-
tion OH that OCCASION
ROBERT W. GIBBES, n. D.
Presiden South Caroline Medical Association