History of The Midland Ophthalmological Society

The MOS is a charity that promotes the continued teaching and learning of Ophthalmology within the Midlands. It is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge, understanding and practice of Ophthalmology

Foundation and Historical Significance

The Midland Ophthalmological Society traces its roots back to the late 19th century, underpinned by a profound commitment to the advancement of ophthalmology. This journey began with Richard Middlemore, who, on 23rd March 1888, signed the foundation deed for what would become a cornerstone of ophthalmic education in the Midlands through the establishment of an annual lectureship. Middlemore’s vision extended beyond the mere delivery of lectures; he aspired for these educational sessions to be accessible to a wider audience, advocating for their publication in reputable British medical journals or as standalone works. This vision came to fruition in 1889 with the delivery of the first lecture, marking the beginning of a tradition that has endured for well over a century.

  • Initiation: On 23rd March 1888, Richard Middlemore signed a deed and established the foundation for an annual lectureship.
  • Publishing Desire: “It was the founder’s desire and earnest request that the lecture or lectures be published either in a separate form or in some medical periodical publication in Great Britain.”
  • First Lecture: In 1889, Mr Lloyd Owens delivered the inaugural lecture series “The Essentials of Ophthalmic Therapeutics”, subsequently published.
  • Annual Tradition: The Middlemore Lectures have been an annual event since their inception in 1889.

Richard Middlemore’s Legacy

The legacy of Richard Middlemore (1804-1891) is not confined to his contributions to ophthalmology but also extends to his personal attributes, which were widely admired. His life and career, detailed in the British Masters in Ophthalmology Series in the British Journal of Ophthalmology in 1920, illuminates the character of a man deeply committed to his field. Described by his nephew as both devoted and personable, Middlemore’s approach to patient care was marked by kindness and empathy, qualities that endeared him to both colleagues and patients alike. There is no easy way to condense his achievements, character and legacy.

  • Publication: In February 1920, the British Journal of Ophthalmology featured a detailed account of Middlemore’s life and contributions to ophthalmology.
  • Personality and Professionalism: In a letter written by his nephew to Dr Jameson Evans on 15th November 1925, Middlemore was described as  “devoted to his profession, with a charming personality. He was most kind and sympathetic to all his patients.”

Establishment of the Midland Ophthalmological Society

The inception of the Midland Ophthalmological Society was a pivotal moment in the history of ophthalmology in the Midlands. The society’s formation was motivated by a desire to foster a collaborative environment among regional surgeons, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and cases. This initiative was formally proposed by Mr Lloyd Owen during an inaugural meeting at the Imperial Hotel in Birmingham on 14th November 1911, which underscored the Midlands’ significant contributions to ophthalmology and set the stage for the society’s enduring impact in the field. The stated aim at the Society’s inception was “to help Midlands surgeons to know each other, and enable them to share cases which could not always go to London”. In 1911 members were enrolled from London, Walsall, Newcastle under Lyme, Gloucester, Cheltenham, Dudley, Leamington and other towns in the Midlands.

  • Preliminary Discussions: Consideration of the Midland Ophthalmological Society began in 1911, with the inaugural meeting held on 14th November 1911 in Birmingham.
  • Founding Objectives: The society aimed to foster collaboration among Midlands surgeons, share cases and knowledge, and advance British ophthalmology.
  • Inaugural Meeting: Lloyd Owen highlighted the region’s significant contributions to the field at the initial gathering and proposed the society’s formation.

Evolution of the Midland Ophthalmological Society

Over the years, the Midland Ophthalmological Society has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and resilience, navigating challenges and seizing opportunities to enhance its educational mission. The strategic decision to align the Richard Middlemore post-graduate lecture with the Midland Ophthalmological Society annual meeting has solidified the event’s status as a key educational fixture.

In 1948, the House Governor of the Birmingham Eye Hospital reported that the lectureship fund had originally been set up with a capital of £1000, which had been invested in the London Midland Service Railway Stock. When the railways were nationalized, this stock depreciated in value, so that the income derived would no longer provide sufficient funds to meet the obligations. The lecture was in jeopardy. However the educational value of the annual event was clear and the finances were quickly resolved. The fund was re-instated back to the sum of £1000 from “general funds”, from which stock in British Transport was bought for a projected 3% income. Today the lecture is supported by the contributions of members of the MOS.

  • Strategic Alignment: On 22nd October 1926, the Middlemore Lecture trustees decided to synchronise the lecture with the Midland Ophthalmological Society meeting in Birmingham every October.
  • Financial Challenges: In 1948, the lecture fund faced a financial shortfall due to depreciated investments, promptly addressed by reallocating funds to ensure the lecture’s continuity.
  • Educational Commitment: The lecture, supported by contributions from members of The Midland Ophthalmological Society, continues to be an annual event, emphasizing the society’s academic mission.

Expansion and Collaboration

The Midland Ophthalmological Society’s influence extends far beyond the Midlands, with a reach that spans both national and international borders. Its annual meetings, held in various locations including Europe and Cyprus, reflect the society’s global perspective on ophthalmic education and collaboration. These gatherings, often in partnership with other prestigious societies, facilitate a rich exchange of knowledge and foster a sense of community among ophthalmologists worldwide.

  • Geographic Reach: The Midland Ophthalmological Society has organised meetings across the UK and internationally, including annual winter meetings in Europe and summer meetings in Cyprus. Complimentary membership was offered to those in developing countries during the Covid pandemic, when lectures were hosted online, and members joined the meetings from Nigeria.
  • Partnerships: To enhance ophthalmic knowledge and practice, the MOS regularly collaborates with other professional bodies, such as the Pantheo Eye Centre in Cyprus, the Northern Ophthalmological Society and the Royal College of Ophthalmologists.

Charitable Status and Modern Aims

Achieving charitable status in 1993 marked a significant milestone for the Midland Ophthalmological Society, allowing it to further its educational and research objectives within a structured framework. Today, the society remains steadfast in its mission to advance the diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of eye diseases and conditions. Through educational initiatives the Midland Ophthalmological Society continues to make a profound impact on the field of ophthalmology.

  • Charitable Recognition: In 1993, the Midland Ophthalmological Society was granted charitable status, adopting a new constitution that reflects the original aims while complying with charity regulation.

Contemporary Goals:

  • Promote educational initiatives for diagnosing and treating diseases and conditions of the eye and associated structures.
  • Encourage research into ocular diseases and publish significant findings.
  • Offer relief for individuals suffering from eye diseases through these educational and research activities.