Who We Are?

  The ENT-HNS Historical Society is a non-profit foundation which succeeds
a similarly named AAO-sponsored group which, for decades, met after-hours
during AA’O-HNS annual meetings to hear and present historically relevant
papers, and discussions, by the most distinguished ENT surgeons of the world.
As an otolaryngology resident in the 1970s, It was my pleasure to encounter
there such inspirational luminaries as Hans Von Leden, laryngologist to the stars;
Howard House, physician to the President; Harold Shukneckt, Chief at Harvard;
and Bill House, one the most famous and accomplished surgeon of his day…
..all attired in coat and tie, sipping champagne while listening to talks and sharing
experiences and anecdotes with residents as well as famous colleagues.
The Historical Society meetings were usually held in an elegant, or important
venue in whatever city the AAO annual meeting convened, and meetings were
supported by the AAO until very recently.
Dory Pettit, my late wife, always enjoyed the elegance of the attendees–
the raconteurs who frequented the annual Historical Society meetings, so
knowing the Historical Society no longer had financial support, Dory provided
in her will for funds for a stipend for the ENT resident who delivers the best paper
at the annual Historical Society meeting.
This year, 2020, the AAO-HNS Historical Society meeting will be at the famed
and historic Harvard Medical School Ether Dome. (see events). A wine and
hors d’ouevres discussion/reception will be held immediately following the
papers at the Harvard History Museum one block away
The generous grant by the Dory Pettit Trust is being utilized to breathe life into
a new non-profit Historical Society dedicated to the memory of the famed
otolaryngologists who have made history and in so doing have made progress
in our specialty.
Net proceeds from annual membership dues go to next year’s
Historical Society meeting and reception. Attendance this year is
limited to 100, maximum seating in the ether dome. Use events tab above
for tickets.

C. Robert Pettit, M.D,,
Fellow, AAO-HNS
Member, AAO History and Archives Committee