Exhibited November, 2006 - January, 2007

Dr. James H. Semans, a prominent Duke University surgeon, urologist, and philanthropist, was one of the first clinicians to link urology to the emerging field of social medicine. Upon his death last year, his widow, Mrs. Mary Duke Biddle Trent Semans, gave his rare books to the History of Medicine Collections. On 18 October, the Medical Center Library and the Trent Associates hosted a celebration to honor the gift of The James H. Semans, MD Urology Collection. For the occasion, Margaret Humphreys, MD, PhD, Professor of History and Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, prepared special remarks which were followed by a reception.

The Semans urology collection comprises European and American works from the sixteenth through the twentieth century. Highlights, including Giovanni Nola's 1562 Italian treatise on urine sedimentation and Gustav Simon's two-volume text, Chirurgie der Nieren (1871-76), are currently on exhibit along with selected instruments from Dr. Semans medical practice. They will remain on view through mid-January 2007.

Mrs. Semans greeting guests

Dr. Ruby Wilson & Mrs. Mary DBT Semans

Margaret Humphreys, MD, PhD