Founded at a time when the study of history of medicine was dominated by medical doctors, the society aimed, from the start, to have a broad based membership, to interest others in the subject.

[1] Early in 1948 Guthrie wrote to a number of individuals throughout Scotland inviting them to a meeting to discuss the formation of a Scottish history of medicine society.

[3] From the outset the SSHM aimed to be broad based and the initial members included medical doctors, dentists, pharmacists and librarians.

Among the first papers heard at the society was one on quarantine from plague and another on the periodic devastation of Scotland by famines and epidemics.

Subsequent outings included visits to Torphichen Preceptory (1950), Greyfriars Churchyard (1954), Liddesdale Heritage Centre, Newcastleton.

Established as a result of a bequest from Douglas Guthrie, the Trust is administered by the SSHM whose officers act as trustees.