American Museum Of Veterinary Medicine

About Us

The American Museum of Veterinary Medicine (AMVM) features medicines, instruments, equipment, text books and literature from over one hundred years of Veterinary history. Located on the Ridgewood Farm in Berks County near Reading, Pennsylvania, the site consists of a renovated historic farmhouse (circa 1740), with a high-style Federal wing (circa 1811), a rare 19th-century double bank barn and a host of outlying buildings.

The AMVM endeavors to increase public awareness of the contributions to society and public welfare made by the Veterinary profession. Disease prevention and treatment by practitioners and the twenty boarded specialties such as dentistry and opthalmology form the backbone of the veterinary profession. Other important endeavors and accomplishments include the development of disease preventing and live-saving pharmaceuticals, protection from zoonotic and food borne diseases through public health practices, passage of legislation for the welfare of animals, and military service to assure national security from the threats such as bioterrorism. Veterinarians have contributed to an increased understanding of basic sciences such as molecular genetics, cell and cancer biology, infectious organisms and reproduction. Education provided by veterinarians to students and graduates supports the foundation of all undertakings by the profession.

The aforementioned disciplines in veterinary medicine comprise the basis for permanent and revolving displays, interactive exhibits and audio-visual presentations.

As the Museum evolves, exhibits and learning centers will be expanded to provide an interactive environment highlighting the past, present and future of veterinary medicine. Emphasis will be placed on a comparative approach to the similarities between human and animal medicine.

The Museum's non-lending library will house books for reference and pleasure reading. A collection of over 4,000 books about domestic animals, wildlife and other topics on nature was donated from the estate of Dr. Roger Caras, former president of the American Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Westminster Dog Show Host and ABC network commentator. The Robert and Leona Shomer collection of rare books describes veterinary and calvary practices and animal husbandry from the 16th through the 19th centuries. Additional books have been donated by many individuals.

The AMVM has assembled exhibits at the new museum, displayed the collection at public events, and hosted Open Houses for professional groups and the general public. Although the museum is not yet fully operational, tours may be arranged by contacted the AMVM. The museum looks forward to a major capital funding campaign to underwrite the purchase of the historic farm and further development of exhibits and public programs. To accomplish these goals, we need your support and membership. Please join the AMVM in this worthy effort.