In celebrating the hundredth anniversary of the founding of the Wills Hospital, it is fitting that the medical administration should report concerning its stewardship and present a chart for the future as it begins the work of the second hundred years.
According to the desire of James Wills, this institution was established and has been operated for the relief of indigent victims of disorders and diseases of the eye. Time does not permit a historic review of the influences that prompted him to found the hospital. By acts of charity during his lifetime and the disposition of his estate, the founder clearly demonstrated his spirit of helpfulness and desire to render practical assistance to the people of Philadelphia and of Pennsylvania who were unable to help themselves. This spirit has prevailed in the minds of those responsible for the execution of the trust.
A survey of the