College of Physicians of Philadelphia

The College of Physicians of Philadelphia is the oldest private medical society in the United States. Founded in 1787 by 24 Philadelphia physicians (including Benjamin Rush) "to advance the Science of Medicine, and thereby lessen human misery, by investigating the diseases and remedies which are peculiar to our country," it has made important contributions to medical education and research. During the Yellow Fever epidemic in 1793, The College advised Mayor Matthew Clarkson on measures for responding to the contagion. Today the College operates the Mutter Museum, a medical museum.