Our History

The Story of King County Medical Society

Since its founding in 1888, KCMS has been dedicated to helping physicians enhance quality of life, relieve pain, and promote the health of individuals in our community.

Back in 1852, the first doctors arrived in Seattle. As the city grew, these physicians confronted public health challenges directly and cared for people who could not afford treatment. In doing so, they became civic leaders as well as medical professionals.

Even before Washington became a state, KCMS physicians were helping shape the civic, social, and medical foundations of the region.

Today, KCMS continues this tradition by advancing physician leadership, advocating for patients, and strengthening the practice of medicine across King County.

In the summer of 1888, 23 Seattle physicians came together to form an organization dedicated to public health and high standards of medical practice. On August 7, 1888, Dr. Gideon A. Weed and Dr. Thomas T. Minor led the founding of the King County Medical Society.

The first officers were Dr. Gideon Weed as President, Dr. F.V. Goodspeed as Vice President, Dr. J.B. Eagleson as Secretary, and Dr. L.R. Dawson as Treasurer.

From the start, the Society took action to protect the public by banning misleading medical advertising and launching educational programs to keep physicians informed about the latest medical advancements.

KCMS founders were pioneers. They helped draft the Washington State Constitution, held public office, and established medical libraries, publications, and hospitals that shaped healthcare across the region.

Their work continues to influence medicine today, reinforcing KCMS’s role as a trusted voice for physicians and patients alike.