Oregon Dental Association records

Collection

Identifier: 2010-011

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection houses organizational records of the Oregon Dental Association (ODA). The collection, which dates from 1896 to 1973, and consist of governing documents, meeting minutes, membership materials, correspondence, and published materials evidencing the operation and projects of the ODA. These records also house a selection of operating documents from the Portland District Dental Society, one of the regional districts within the larger ODA.

The Oregon Dental Association records offer unique insight into the development of the dental profession throughout much of the 20th century, both in the United States and, more specifically, in Oregon. The correspondence, meeting minutes, and published materials shed light on which issues were most important to the dentistry profession. Passing legislation to benefit public dental health was clearly a priority for the Oregon Dental Association, as extensive documentation on a campaign to fluoridate Oregon’s water illustrates. Additionally, records in this collection highlight the association’s role in financially supporting struggling dentists throughout the 1940s and helping to educate dentists and prospective dentists.

Dates

Creation: 1896-1973

Creator

Oregon Dental Association (Organization)

Conditions Governing Access

There are no restrictions on access. This collection is open to the public.

Conditions Governing Use

OHSU Historical Collections & Archives (HC&A) is the owner of the original materials and digitized images in our collections, however, the collection may contain materials for which copyright is not held. Patrons are responsible for determining the appropriate use or reuse of materials. Consult with HC&A to determine if we can provide permission for use.

Biographical / Historical

The Oregon Dental Association (ODA) is a voluntary membership organization for Oregon-based dentists. The association was founded in 1893, operates statewide, and is currently headquartered in Wilsonville, Oregon. Throughout its existence, the ODA has provided networking and, at times, financial support to members, launched educational programs, and advocated for public health issues of importance to its membership. This organization is known for advocating for the collective interests of Oregon dentists throughout the 20th century and into the modern day.

Extent

1.76 Linear Feet (Three doc boxes and one oversized flat box)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

The Oregon Dental Association (ODA) is a voluntary membership organization for Oregon-based dentists founded in 1893. This collection consists of governing documents, meeting minutes, membership materials, correspondence, and published materials evidencing the operation and projects of the ODA.

Arrangement

This collection is arranged into six series: “Governing documents, 1912-1971.” “Meeting minutes, 1937-1952;” “Membership materials, 1908-1969;.” “Correspondence, 1925-1964.” “Published materials, 1953-1973;” and “Portland District records, 1896-1960.”

All series are arranged alphabetically by folder name.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Materials transfered from the School of Dentistry by J. Henry Clarke.

Processing Information

This collection initially also included records from the Oregon Dental Alumni Association, which have been seperated for processing into the appropraite collection.