UAMS Historical Research Center

03/12/2026

You are cordially invited to attend the History of Medicine and Science Lecture featuring Dacre Stoker, the great-grandnephew of Bram Stoker and an internationally recognized authority on the history and legacy of Dracula. The event is scheduled for Friday, April 17th, at 5:00 pm on the 12th floor of the Jack Stephens Spine & Neurosciences Institute on the UAMS campus in Little Rock. Parking will be available in Parking Deck 3 (4000 W. Capitol Avenue). The lecture will be live-streamed over Zoom, so attendees have the option to attend the event in person or virtually. A reception will immediately follow Mr. Stoker's lecture.

In this special presentation, “Medical Contributions to the Gothic Novel Dracula,” Mr. Stoker will explore how late-Victorian medical knowledge, scientific ideas, and the influence of physicians—particularly Sir William Thornley Stoker, Bram Stoker’s brother and a prominent surgeon—helped shape one of the most enduring works of Gothic literature.

This lecture will examine the intersection of medicine, science, and literature, revealing how contemporary medical theories of the late nineteenth century informed the characters, illnesses, and dramatic tensions within Dracula. Through historical insight and family archives, Mr. Stoker will illuminate how medical thought influenced the creation of the modern Gothic imagination.

We hope you will join us for this fascinating exploration of the medical and scientific ideas that helped give life to one of literature’s most iconic works.

This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. To register, please visit the History of Medicine and Science web page.

“Medical Contributions to the Gothic Novel, Dracula” Dacre Stoker Dacre Stoker — great-grandnephew of Bram Stoker — is a Canadian author and former pentathlete. He’s co-written major best-sellers like Dracula the Un-dead (2009) and Dracul (2018), and co-edited The Lost Journal of Bra...

12/03/2025

We hope to see you on February 5, 2026, for a new year of the Stay-at-Home lectures.

12/01/2025

Register for this Wednesday's Legacies & Lunch to hear Dr. Elliott Bowen discuss the treatment of patients with syphilis during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Historical Research Center Director Tim Nutt will join Dr. Bowen for a question and answer session. Hope to see you in-person or on Zoom.

🩺𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡: 𝐋𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐨𝐭 𝐒𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐀𝐫𝐤𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐬 - 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐬 & 𝐋𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓⁠
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Historian Elliott Bowen explores how moral norms shaped early twentieth century public health in Hot Springs. He’s joined by Tim Nutt of UAMS to connect this history to Arkansas’s broader public health story.⁠
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🗓️ Wednesday, December 3, 2025⁠
🕛 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM ⁠
📍 Attend in person or via Zoom ⁠
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🎟 FREE & open to the public! In-person attendees get drinks, cookie, & a chance at a door prize. Bring your lunch and join us downtown!⁠
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register here: https://events.cals.org/event/15006251

10/30/2025

Please join us next Thursday at noon on Zoom for a presentation on Eureka Springs, its mineral springs, and quack doctors.

The next Stay-at-Home Lecture is scheduled for Thursday, November 6th, from 12:00 pm-1:00 pm via Zoom. Tim Nutt, Director of the UAMS Historical Research Center, will present “Eureka Springs and Its Place in Arkansas Medical History.” Eureka Springs, incorporated in 1879, is known for its winding streets, the Crescent Hotel, and its mineral springs. In the late 19th Century, the city was a resort destination for those seeking healing in the springs that dotted the landscape. The springs not only attracted visitors to the city, though, but they also drew charlatans, such as “Dr.” Norman Baker, looking to take advantage of those in ill health.

You can join the virtual Stay-at-Home presentation by using this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97223974167 . If you do not have video capabilities, you can still participate in the presentation by using a telephone and dialing either: (346) 248-7799 or (312) 626-6799. When prompted, enter the Meeting ID: 972 2397 4167.

This presentation is a part of the Stay-at-Home Lecture Series, sponsored by the Society for the History of Medicine and Health Professions. Founded in 1981, the Society supports the mission and activities of the UAMS Historical Research Center, which is charged with preserving the institutional records of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the history of the health sciences in Arkansas. The UAMS Historical Research Center is the only archival repository in the state dedicated solely to the preservation of the history of medicine.

Stay-at-Home Lectures are presented from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm on the first Thursday of every month. Registration is not required for the lectures, which are free and open to the public. All lectures are recorded and uploaded to the Society’s YouTube Channel.

Please join us next Thursday, November 6th, at noon, to learn more about the history of Eureka Springs.

07/30/2025

Please join us next Thursday, August 7th to help us celebrate the history and impact of St. Bernards Healthcare in Jonesboro during its last 125 years!

The next Stay-at-Home Lecture is scheduled for Thursday, August 7th, from 12:00 pm-1:00 pm via Zoom. Tim Nutt, Director of the UAMS Historical Research Center, will present “‘Their Good Work Extends to All’: The History of St. Bernards Healthcare in Jonesboro, Arkansas, 1900-2025.” St. Bernard’s Hospital was founded in 1900, by the Olivetan Benedictine Sisters, who were asked to care for the sick during a malaria epidemic in Northeast Arkansas. Since then, the institution has expanded its institutional footprint and medical services to become one of the premier healthcare centers in Arkansas and the Mid-South Region. This year, St. Bernards Healthcare celebrates its 125th anniversary.

You can join the virtual Stay-at-Home presentation by using this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97223974167. If you do not have video capabilities, you can still participate in the presentation by using a telephone and dialing either: (346) 248-7799 or (312) 626-6799. When prompted, enter the Meeting ID: 972 2397 4167.

This presentation is a part of the Stay-at-Home Lecture Series, sponsored by the Society for the History of Medicine and Health Professions. Founded in 1981, the Society supports the mission and activities of the UAMS Historical Research Center, which is charged with preserving the institutional records of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the history of the health sciences in Arkansas. The UAMS Historical Research Center is the only archival repository in the state dedicated solely to the preservation of the history of medicine. Stay-at-Home Lectures are presented from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm on the first Thursday of every month. Registration is not required for the lectures, which are free and open to the public. All lectures are recorded and uploaded to the Society’s YouTube Channel.

Please join us next Thursday, August 7th, at noon, to learn more about the history of St. Bernards!

07/22/2025

If you'd like to learn more about Dr. A.L. Breysacher, one of the founding physicians of UAMS, check out the Stay-at-Home lecture on YouTube.

Tim Nutt, Director of the UAMS Historical Research Center, discusses the life and career of Dr. A.L. Breysacher, a native of Ohio and one of the eight foundi...

06/27/2025

We hope you'll join us next week to learn more about Dr. A.L. Breysacher.

The next Stay-at-Home Lecture is scheduled for Thursday, July 3rd, from 12:00 pm-1:00 pm via Zoom. Tim Nutt, Director of the UAMS Historical Research Center, will present “‘A Skillful Physician and Surgeon’: The Life and Career of Dr. A.L. Breysacher.” Dr. Breysacher (1831-1897) was born in Ohio, the son of German immigrants. The family moved to St. Louis soon around 1832, and Breysacher graduated from Missouri Medical College in 1859; soon after, he was appointed acting assistant surgeon in the U.S. Army. After the Civil War, Dr. Breysacher and his wife moved to Pine Bluff, then to Little Rock around 1874. In 1879, he became one of the eight doctors who founded the state’s first medical school (now UAMS) and served as Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology until his death in 1897.

You can join the virtual Stay-at-Home presentation by visiting this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97223974167. If you do not have video capabilities, you can still participate in the presentation by using a telephone and dialing either: (346) 248-7799 or (312) 626-6799. When prompted, enter the Meeting ID: 972 2397 4167.

This presentation is a part of the Stay-at-Home Lecture Series, sponsored by the Society for the History of Medicine and Health Professions. Founded in 1981, the Society supports the mission and activities of the UAMS Historical Research Center, which is charged with preserving the institutional records of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the history of the health sciences in Arkansas. The UAMS Historical Research Center is the only archival repository in the state dedicated solely to the preservation of the history of medicine. Stay-at-Home Lectures are presented from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm on the first Thursday of every month. Registration is not required for the lectures, which are free and open to the public. All lectures are recorded and uploaded to the Society’s YouTube Channel.

06/04/2025

Please tune in next month for the Stay-at-Home Lecture.

04/28/2025

The next Stay-at-Home Lecture is scheduled for this Thursday, May 1st, from 12:00 pm-1:00 pm via Zoom. Tim Nutt, Director of the UAMS Historical Research Center, will present “Founding Father: The Life and Career of Dr. Edwin Bentley.” Dr. Bentley (1824-1917) was a native of Connecticut and served as an assistant surgeon during the Civil War. In 1878, he was assigned to the Little Rock Arsenal as post surgeon, and a year later became one of the eight doctors who founded the state’s first medical school (now UAMS). He later served as dean of the medical school.

You can join the virtual Stay-at-Home presentation by visiting this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97223974167 . If you do not have video capabilities, you can still participate in the presentation by using a telephone and dialing either: (346) 248-7799 or (312) 626-6799. When prompted, enter the Meeting ID: 972 2397 4167.

This presentation is a part of the Stay-at-Home Lecture Series, sponsored by the Society for the History of Medicine and Health Professions. Founded in 1981, the Society supports the mission and activities of the UAMS Historical Research Center, which is charged with preserving the institutional records of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the history of the health sciences in Arkansas. The UAMS Historical Research Center is the only archival repository in the state dedicated solely to the preservation of the history of medicine. Stay-at-Home Lectures are presented from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm on the first Thursday of every month. Registration is not required for the lectures, which are free and open to the public. All lectures are recorded and uploaded to the Society’s YouTube Channel.

Please join us on Thursday, May 1st, at noon, to learn more about Dr. Bentley and his contributions to the Arkansas medical field.

03/04/2025

The next Stay-at-Home Lecture is scheduled for next Thursday, March 6th, from 12:00 pm-1:00 pm via Zoom. Dr. Taylor Prewitt, of Fort Smith, will present “Roger Bost, Arkansas’s Pediatrician: Ninety percent Backbone.” Dr. Bost (1921-2013) was a native of Clarksville and graduated from the University of Arkansas School of Medicine (now UAMS) in 1945, specializing in Pediatrics. Dr. Bost was a staunch advocate for the state’s disabled children, focusing his work and philanthropic efforts on their behalf. Bost, Inc., a non-profit in Fort Smith that provides services to individuals with intellectual, developmental, or behavioral needs, is a continuation of Dr. Bost’s long-time efforts. His career also included work at UAMS, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, and state government, where in 1971, Dr. Bost helped to form the Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services. The presentation will highlight these and other contributions made to Arkansas medicine by Dr. Bost.

The presenter, Dr. Taylor Prewitt, earned his BA in English from the University of Arkansas and his medical degree from Washington University, specializing in Cardiology. He practiced at the Cooper Clinic in Fort Smith from 1969-2003, and served on the boards of St. Edward Mercy Hospital and Methodist Village Senior Living.

You can join the virtual Stay-at-Home presentation by using this lnk: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97223974167 . If you do not have video capabilities, you can still participate in the presentation by using a telephone and dialing either: (346) 248-7799 or (312) 626-6799. When prompted, enter the Meeting ID: 972 2397 4167.

This presentation is a part of the Stay-at-Home Lecture Series, sponsored by the Society for the History of Medicine and Health Professions. Founded in 1981, the Society supports the mission and activities of the UAMS Historical Research Centerr, which is charged with preserving the institutional records of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the history of the health sciences in Arkansas. The UAMS Historical Research Center is the only archival repository in the state dedicated solely to the preservation of the history of medicine. Stay-at-Home Lectures are presented from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm on the first Thursday of every month. Registration is not required for the lectures, which are free and open to the public. All lectures are recorded and uploaded to the Society’s YouTube Channel.

Please join us this Thursday, at noon, to learn more about the impactful career of Dr. Roger Bost!

02/04/2025

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Stay-at-Home lectured scheduled for this Thursday, February 6th will be rescheduled.

We appreciate your continued support for the Society for the History of Medicine and Health Professions.

09/30/2024

The next Stay-at-Home lecture is scheduled for this Thursday, October 3rd, from 12:00 pm-1:00 pm via Zoom. Tim Nutt, Director of the UAMS Historical Research Center, will present “Moving to Markham: The Relocation of the Medical School from Downtown to ‘West’ Little Rock”. After more than 20 years at Twelfth and McAlmont streets in downtown Little Rock, the University of Arkansas School of Medicine had outgrown its facilities so school, local, and state leaders looked for a location to build a new medical center. In 1957, the new hospital and education building opened on West Markham Street, ushering in a new era of medical care in Arkansas. UAMS continues to occupy the space, although the campus footprint and the services offered have greatly expanded since then.

You can join the virtual Stay-at-Home presentation by using this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/97223974167 . If you do not have video capabilities, you can still participate in the presentation by using a telephone and dialing either: (346) 248-7799 or (312) 626-6799. When prompted, enter the Meeting ID: 972 2397 4167.

This presentation is a part of the Stay-at-Home Lecture Series, sponsored by the Society for the History of Medicine and Health Professions. Founded in 1981, the Society supports the mission and activities of the UAMS Historical Research Center, which is charged with preserving the institutional records of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the history of the health sciences in Arkansas. Stay-at-Home Lectures are presented from 12:00 to 1:00 pm on the first Thursday of every month. Registration is not required for the lectures, which are free and open to the public. All lectures are recorded and uploaded to the Society’s YouTube Channel.