Alcoholics Anonymous started in 1935. Many spiritual concepts came from The Oxford Groups. Medical information came from Dr Silkworth and others. It continues to grow and other Twelve Step organizations have been started using the same principles....
This page was last updated on October 6th, 2008
This page was last updated on October 6th, 2008
History (from Alcoholics Anonymous)
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Tennessee Archives
This site is Tennessee State Archives of Alcoholics Anonymous in Area 64. The main purpose is to carry the message to the still suffering Alcoholic.
The Lord's Prayer
Letter from AA co-founder Bill W about the custom of using this prayer to close an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.
Searcy W
Interview with early Texas AA member who was 54+ years sober at the time.
A.A. in Regular Magazines
Complete text of several articles in general circulation magazines. From the History Lovers archive. ["Next" "Previous" scrolls more]
Old School A.A.
A book about the Christian techniques of early A.A.'s Fellowship as reported by A.A. Trustee Frank Amos
Tombstone at Winchester Cathedral
Photograph of the tombstone which is quoted in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous.
A Manual for Alcoholics Anonymous - 1940
A Manual for Alcoholics Anonymous From AA Group No. 1, Akron, Ohio, 1940 - Dr. Bob's Home Group
The Akron Manual from 1940 (Part 2)
Conclusion of historic pamphlet given to newcomers in the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Sponsorship Pamphlet from 1944
"A.A. Sponsorship... Its Obligations and Its Responsibilities" by Clarence S. was first published by Cleveland Central Office. (PDF requires Acrobat Reader)[PDF]
Articles, Letters, and Pamphlets from Early AA
A collection of newspaper and magazine articles important to the growth of Alcoholics Anonymous. More history from old letters, brochures, and pamphlets. Compiled by the West Baltimore Group.
How it Worked
The story of Clarence S and the early history of Alcoholics Anonymous in Cleveland, Ohio. Complete text available free on-line. His was "Home Brewmeister" story in the Big Book.
A List of A.A. History Sites
Comprehensive reference list of A.A. history sites and resources used by A.A. historian Dick B.
The Oxford Group Connection
Many spiritual principles of Alcoholics Anonymous came from the Oxford Groups, an early 20th century religious movement. This article traces that part of AA history.
History in Photos
A photographic journey through the history of Alcoholics Anonymous. Founders, friends, and memorabilia.
A.A. History Buffs
A discussion group for those interested in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous. (Was replaced by AA History Lovers.)
Sobriety Medallions
Article traces the origin of the sobriety anniversary medallion to 1973 and a small mint named Wendell's.
An Illustrated AA Bibliography
Articles about important figures in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous. Some Oxford Group material. Links to pages with some audio clips.
Circle and Triangle Logo
What Happened To The Triangle In the Circle? History of why this symbol was removed from Alcoholics Anonymous publications in 1993.
Bill W: Brooklyn's Most-Quoted Humanitarian
Excerpt from "Bill W." by Robert Thomsen summarizes the influence of the Alcoholics Anonymous co-founcer.
The Akron Manual from 1940 (Part 1)
Historic pamphlet given to newcomers in the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous.
The Real Oxford Group Connection to A.A.
Summary of Dick B's writings on the Oxford Groups as related to AA as of 2002.
Big Book Early Manuscript
This early draft of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous was written before the manuscript that was distributed for review.
Christian or Occult Roots?
The authors suggest that AA did not originate in Christianity since it has never required members to believe in Christ crucified.
Northern Illinois Area
How AA developed from the first intergroup in Chicago to what NIA is doing now. By Area 20 of Alcoholics Anonymous. (PDF requires Acrobat Reader)
Gresham's Law in Alcoholics Anonymous
This 1976 article from "24 Magazine" argues that weak A.A. is squeezing out strong A.A. practices.
A.A. History and Archives at Indiana University
Development of spiritual aspects of the A.A. program. Consists of articles and resource material formatted for easy printing.
An A.A. History Archive
A collection of articles and letters relating to the early history of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Plain Dealer
Cleveland Plain Dealer newspaper articles on Alcoholics Anonymous. Elrick Davis, 1939. Took AA beyond mere word of mouth.
The Varieties of Religious Experience
In 1938, a future founder of Alcoholics Anonymous read "Varieties of Religious Experience" by philosopher and psychologist William James. Some of these ideas were important in the history of A.A. principles. Complete text.
Dick B Articles on A.A. History
This prolific writer focuses on the Christian and Bible influences on early Alcoholics Anonymous. Several articles here. Links to other sites with even more.
History of AA in Ireland
About the people who first brought Alcoholics Anonymous to Ireland.
AA Grapevine Digital Archives
Trace the history of Alcoholics Anonymous through the news and views of members over the years. "AA Grapevine" magazine article since the first issue. [Subscription]
Pre-Manuscript of Bill's Story
This is the first printed draft of the Big Book which was mailed to various individuals for their comments and also as a fund raising tool.
The Care of Alcoholics
A 1951 article by Sister Ignatia about how she and Dr Bob and other A.A. members worked together at St Thomas Hospital in Akron, Ohio. One ward was dedicated to the work of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Angel of Hope
Offers a video biography of Sister Ignatia who provided medical care for many early members of Alcoholics Anonymous.
How AA Came to Maryland
Starts with Maryland native Sam Shoemaker a pre-founder of AA. Follows others who brought the fellowship to Maryland and the development of early groups there.
ICYPAA History
International Conference of Young People in Alcoholics Anonymous. Presently limited to the location of their conventions 1958 to present.
Original "How It Works"
Text of "How It Works" chapter as it was in the draft manuscript.
Dr. Robert Smith Archives at Brown University
The collection of correspondence, meeting notes and books of Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder Dr. Robert H. Smith has been acquired by Brown University and will be made available to researchers interested in the origins of 12-step recovery programs.
Searcy's Book 1
Offers a book on "My Alcoholism Recovery since 1946" and a history of how early A.A. groups started.
A.A. History Lovers
A discussion group for those interested in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous. Replaced the earlier History Buffs group.
Dr Silkworth Archive
Dr. William (Silky) Silkworth was a key figure in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous. This is a collection of articles by and about him.
An Interpretation of the Twelve Steps
"First printed in September 1944" according to the first page. Steps are broken into four discussion topics. Also known as The Detroit Pamphlet. (PDF requires Acrobat Reader)
The Co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous
Articles about and talks by Bill W and Doctor Bob S. Includes memorial service talk by Bill in memory of Bob. Some recordings available in Real Audio.
The Common Sense of Drinking
This 1931 book by Richard Peabody was influential in the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous. Complete text is available as a PDF (Adobe Acrobat) file.
A.A. in Religious Magazines
Complete text of several articles in religious magazines. From the History Lovers archive. ["Next" "Previous" scrolls more]
Readings from A.A. History
Several articles about Alcoholics Anonymous history collected by the Midland (Michigan) Intergroup.
Alcoholics Anonymous Historical Data
The Birth of A.A. and its growth in U.S. and Canada. By the AA General Service Office.
Twelve Step History
Several articles about AA and the Twelve Steps collected by Serenity Found.
Australian AA History
Tells of the start and growth of Alcoholics Anonymous in Australia (1942 thru 1999).
Chicago AA History
Features an article by a delegate to the first General Service Conference. Also a member who came to AA in 1947 who died 50+ years sober.
The Serenity Prayer
A 1992 article from "Box 4-5-9" on the origins of the Serenity Prayer and how it came to Alcoholics Anonymous.
A.A. History by Mitchell K.
A collection of articles by historian and archivist Mitchell K. on the history of Alcoholics Anonymous.
The Jack Alexander Article
"Alcoholics Anonymous" by Jack Alexander, Saturday Evening Post, March 1, 1941. This resulted in a major growth of AA. {Mandatory MIDI music while you read it.)
Photographs from AA History
A collection from the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous with a few more recent pictures.
Some Early Sobriety Mementos
Photos of some early tokens marking various periods of sobriety in AA. These led to the chips that some groups still use today.
Oxford Group Pamphlets Reprinted
Thirteen complete Oxford Group pamphlets. Most of AA spiritual principals were drawn from this group's writings.
The Detroit Pamphlet
"An Interpretation of the Twelve Steps" is a historic pamphlet used in early Alcoholics Anonymous. Steps are arranged in four topics of Admission, Spiritual Phase, Inventory and Restitution, and Active Work.
AA History from Cybriety.org
Scores of articles, letters, and pictures about the development of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Timeline of AA History, A Narrative
Traces alcoholism and the development of Alcoholics Anonymous. Names and dates including the origin of many of the Big Book stories. [Requires Acrobat Reader][PDF]
Success Rates in Early A.A.
Alcoholics Anonymous still works for alcoholics who want to stop drinking and who really try. Numbers look different because early AA prescreened candidates. Examples.
The Silkworth Net Collection
Provides resources on the subject of alcoholism and recovery, especially AA history and the Big Book "Alcoholics Anonymous."
In AA's First Five Years
An AA Grapevine article from 1967 by Lois W. A bit of Alcoholics Anonymous history including how Al-Anon was started.
People in AA History
An Interwoven web of the People mentioned in Alcoholics Anonymous Literature, who they are and how they fit in
AA Grapevine on Early Groups
Collection of articles 1944-48 about activities of groups as they formed. Complete Grapevine text. From the History Lovers archives.
An 1878 View of The Washingtonians
Article from book "The Temperance Reform and its Great Reformers." The Washingtonians was an early predecessor of AA which faded away.
Dallas, Texas, AA History
Esther E. ("A Flower of the South") introduced AA to Dallas in 1943. Includes an interview with oldtimer Searcy W.
AA Basics: A Study
One writer's view of the Twelve Steps and their relation to Holy Bible passages in James, Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, and 1 Corinthians 13.
AA History and Trivia
A sober web site for recovering alcoholics. Questions and answers on AA History and other fun for members of Alcoholics Anonymous and their friends.
Ten Years of A.A. in Cuba
A report by someone who attended the tenth anniversary of Alcoholics Anonymous in Cuba.
Second Annual AA History Conference
"A Spiritual Awakening." Features authors and archivests who are very familiar with the early years of AA. February 20-22, 2004 in Phoenix, AZ.
Clarence Snyder - Home Brewmeister
A biography of the man who started AA in Cleveland, Ohio. This was the first group to be called Alcoholics Anonymous.
Alcoholics Anonymous in Bristol and the West of England
Brief history of how AA came to Bristol, England, and spread from there.
Bill W Obituary
New York Times News Service article on the passing of A.A. co-founder Bill W on Sunday, January 24, 1971.
For Drunks Only
Preface to "For Drunks Only" gives history of that book as well as the popular "Twenty-Four Hours a Day" meditation book.
Alcoholics and God - Liberty Magazine
The September 1939 Liberty Magazine article on Alcoholics Anonymous. First national coverage of AA.
Writing The Big Book
Most of the ideas and wording in the A.A. book came from other writers. An essay by archivist and historian Mitchell K.
Mitchell K's A.A. Photographic History
AA's internet archivist has created a photographic journey through the history of Alcoholics Anonymous.
How AA Came to Baltimore
Traces the history of the first groups. Includes text of local newspaper articles during that time.
Sue Smith Windows Memorial Book
Obituary and funeral card of the daughter of Doctor Bob, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. February 15, 1918 to February 9, 2002.
Dr Harry Tiebout Papers
Dr. Harry M. Tiebout, a psychiatrist, was an early supporter of Alcoholics Anonymous. These papers are an important part of A.A. history.
Biographies of the Authors of the Big Book Stories
The short biographies of the various authors of the stories in the back of the book - Alcoholics Anonymous.
This site is Tennessee State Archives of Alcoholics Anonymous in Area 64. The main purpose is to carry the message to the still suffering Alcoholic.
Letter from AA co-founder Bill W about the custom of using this prayer to close an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.
Interview with early Texas AA member who was 54+ years sober at the time.
Complete text of several articles in general circulation magazines. From the History Lovers archive. ["Next" "Previous" scrolls more]
A book about the Christian techniques of early A.A.'s Fellowship as reported by A.A. Trustee Frank Amos
Photograph of the tombstone which is quoted in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous.
A Manual for Alcoholics Anonymous From AA Group No. 1, Akron, Ohio, 1940 - Dr. Bob's Home Group
Conclusion of historic pamphlet given to newcomers in the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous.
"A.A. Sponsorship... Its Obligations and Its Responsibilities" by Clarence S. was first published by Cleveland Central Office. (PDF requires Acrobat Reader)[PDF]
A collection of newspaper and magazine articles important to the growth of Alcoholics Anonymous. More history from old letters, brochures, and pamphlets. Compiled by the West Baltimore Group.
The story of Clarence S and the early history of Alcoholics Anonymous in Cleveland, Ohio. Complete text available free on-line. His was "Home Brewmeister" story in the Big Book.
Comprehensive reference list of A.A. history sites and resources used by A.A. historian Dick B.
Many spiritual principles of Alcoholics Anonymous came from the Oxford Groups, an early 20th century religious movement. This article traces that part of AA history.
A photographic journey through the history of Alcoholics Anonymous. Founders, friends, and memorabilia.
A discussion group for those interested in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous. (Was replaced by AA History Lovers.)
Article traces the origin of the sobriety anniversary medallion to 1973 and a small mint named Wendell's.
Articles about important figures in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous. Some Oxford Group material. Links to pages with some audio clips.
What Happened To The Triangle In the Circle? History of why this symbol was removed from Alcoholics Anonymous publications in 1993.
Excerpt from "Bill W." by Robert Thomsen summarizes the influence of the Alcoholics Anonymous co-founcer.
Historic pamphlet given to newcomers in the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Summary of Dick B's writings on the Oxford Groups as related to AA as of 2002.
This early draft of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous was written before the manuscript that was distributed for review.
The authors suggest that AA did not originate in Christianity since it has never required members to believe in Christ crucified.
How AA developed from the first intergroup in Chicago to what NIA is doing now. By Area 20 of Alcoholics Anonymous. (PDF requires Acrobat Reader)
This 1976 article from "24 Magazine" argues that weak A.A. is squeezing out strong A.A. practices.
Development of spiritual aspects of the A.A. program. Consists of articles and resource material formatted for easy printing.
A collection of articles and letters relating to the early history of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Cleveland Plain Dealer newspaper articles on Alcoholics Anonymous. Elrick Davis, 1939. Took AA beyond mere word of mouth.
In 1938, a future founder of Alcoholics Anonymous read "Varieties of Religious Experience" by philosopher and psychologist William James. Some of these ideas were important in the history of A.A. principles. Complete text.
This prolific writer focuses on the Christian and Bible influences on early Alcoholics Anonymous. Several articles here. Links to other sites with even more.
About the people who first brought Alcoholics Anonymous to Ireland.
Trace the history of Alcoholics Anonymous through the news and views of members over the years. "AA Grapevine" magazine article since the first issue. [Subscription]
This is the first printed draft of the Big Book which was mailed to various individuals for their comments and also as a fund raising tool.
A 1951 article by Sister Ignatia about how she and Dr Bob and other A.A. members worked together at St Thomas Hospital in Akron, Ohio. One ward was dedicated to the work of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Offers a video biography of Sister Ignatia who provided medical care for many early members of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Starts with Maryland native Sam Shoemaker a pre-founder of AA. Follows others who brought the fellowship to Maryland and the development of early groups there.
International Conference of Young People in Alcoholics Anonymous. Presently limited to the location of their conventions 1958 to present.
Text of "How It Works" chapter as it was in the draft manuscript.
The collection of correspondence, meeting notes and books of Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder Dr. Robert H. Smith has been acquired by Brown University and will be made available to researchers interested in the origins of 12-step recovery programs.
Offers a book on "My Alcoholism Recovery since 1946" and a history of how early A.A. groups started.
A discussion group for those interested in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous. Replaced the earlier History Buffs group.
Dr. William (Silky) Silkworth was a key figure in the history of Alcoholics Anonymous. This is a collection of articles by and about him.
"First printed in September 1944" according to the first page. Steps are broken into four discussion topics. Also known as The Detroit Pamphlet. (PDF requires Acrobat Reader)
Articles about and talks by Bill W and Doctor Bob S. Includes memorial service talk by Bill in memory of Bob. Some recordings available in Real Audio.
This 1931 book by Richard Peabody was influential in the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous. Complete text is available as a PDF (Adobe Acrobat) file.
Complete text of several articles in religious magazines. From the History Lovers archive. ["Next" "Previous" scrolls more]
Several articles about Alcoholics Anonymous history collected by the Midland (Michigan) Intergroup.
The Birth of A.A. and its growth in U.S. and Canada. By the AA General Service Office.
Several articles about AA and the Twelve Steps collected by Serenity Found.
Tells of the start and growth of Alcoholics Anonymous in Australia (1942 thru 1999).
Features an article by a delegate to the first General Service Conference. Also a member who came to AA in 1947 who died 50+ years sober.
A 1992 article from "Box 4-5-9" on the origins of the Serenity Prayer and how it came to Alcoholics Anonymous.
A collection of articles by historian and archivist Mitchell K. on the history of Alcoholics Anonymous.
"Alcoholics Anonymous" by Jack Alexander, Saturday Evening Post, March 1, 1941. This resulted in a major growth of AA. {Mandatory MIDI music while you read it.)
A collection from the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous with a few more recent pictures.
Photos of some early tokens marking various periods of sobriety in AA. These led to the chips that some groups still use today.
Thirteen complete Oxford Group pamphlets. Most of AA spiritual principals were drawn from this group's writings.
"An Interpretation of the Twelve Steps" is a historic pamphlet used in early Alcoholics Anonymous. Steps are arranged in four topics of Admission, Spiritual Phase, Inventory and Restitution, and Active Work.
Scores of articles, letters, and pictures about the development of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Traces alcoholism and the development of Alcoholics Anonymous. Names and dates including the origin of many of the Big Book stories. [Requires Acrobat Reader][PDF]
Alcoholics Anonymous still works for alcoholics who want to stop drinking and who really try. Numbers look different because early AA prescreened candidates. Examples.
Provides resources on the subject of alcoholism and recovery, especially AA history and the Big Book "Alcoholics Anonymous."
An AA Grapevine article from 1967 by Lois W. A bit of Alcoholics Anonymous history including how Al-Anon was started.
An Interwoven web of the People mentioned in Alcoholics Anonymous Literature, who they are and how they fit in
Collection of articles 1944-48 about activities of groups as they formed. Complete Grapevine text. From the History Lovers archives.
Article from book "The Temperance Reform and its Great Reformers." The Washingtonians was an early predecessor of AA which faded away.
Esther E. ("A Flower of the South") introduced AA to Dallas in 1943. Includes an interview with oldtimer Searcy W.
One writer's view of the Twelve Steps and their relation to Holy Bible passages in James, Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, and 1 Corinthians 13.
A sober web site for recovering alcoholics. Questions and answers on AA History and other fun for members of Alcoholics Anonymous and their friends.
A report by someone who attended the tenth anniversary of Alcoholics Anonymous in Cuba.
"A Spiritual Awakening." Features authors and archivests who are very familiar with the early years of AA. February 20-22, 2004 in Phoenix, AZ.
A biography of the man who started AA in Cleveland, Ohio. This was the first group to be called Alcoholics Anonymous.
Brief history of how AA came to Bristol, England, and spread from there.
New York Times News Service article on the passing of A.A. co-founder Bill W on Sunday, January 24, 1971.
Preface to "For Drunks Only" gives history of that book as well as the popular "Twenty-Four Hours a Day" meditation book.
The September 1939 Liberty Magazine article on Alcoholics Anonymous. First national coverage of AA.
Most of the ideas and wording in the A.A. book came from other writers. An essay by archivist and historian Mitchell K.
AA's internet archivist has created a photographic journey through the history of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Traces the history of the first groups. Includes text of local newspaper articles during that time.
Obituary and funeral card of the daughter of Doctor Bob, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. February 15, 1918 to February 9, 2002.
Dr. Harry M. Tiebout, a psychiatrist, was an early supporter of Alcoholics Anonymous. These papers are an important part of A.A. history.
The short biographies of the various authors of the stories in the back of the book - Alcoholics Anonymous.
Alcoholics Anonymous >> History yielded other results on Canadian Content:
History Forum
History , Page - General History ... discuss all the rear view mirror issues here!
History , Page - General History ... discuss all the rear view mirror issues here!
History [Archive] - Canadian Content Forums
[Archive] General History ... discuss all the rear view mirror issues here!
[Archive] General History ... discuss all the rear view mirror issues here!
History Forum - Page 14
History , Page 14 - General History ... discuss all the rear view mirror issues here!
History , Page 14 - General History ... discuss all the rear view mirror issues here!
History Forum - Page 4
History , Page 4 - General History ... discuss all the rear view mirror issues here!
History , Page 4 - General History ... discuss all the rear view mirror issues here!
History Forum - Page 3
History , Page 3 - General History ... discuss all the rear view mirror issues here!
History , Page 3 - General History ... discuss all the rear view mirror issues here!
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