Palmer College of Chiropractic

Chiropractic History

About the History Foundation

The Palmer Foundation for Chiropractic History was founded in 1996 in an effort to preserve chiropractic history artifacts and archival materials. Forming the cornerstone of this historical account is the home of the second president of Palmer School of Chiropractic, B.J. Palmer and his wife Mabel. Located on the Palmer Davenport campus, the Palmer Mansion reflects the eclectic tastes of a man who was as rich in his philosophical and intellectual pursuits as in his personal interests. Covering the walls and parquet floors are Oriental art, Native American rugs, fine furnishings, and many excellent examples of Roycroft crafts.

The Palmer Museum for Chiropractic History was opened in 2003 and tells the story of chiropractic through diverse exhibits.

The Foundation collaborates with the David D. Palmer Health Sciences Library, the Palmer West Library and the Palmer Florida Library to support the Special Collections and the Archives Collections. Together, with the museum collections, they form what is considered to be the most comprehensive historical resource for chiropractic.

The mission statement adopted by the Foundation’s Board of Advisers and ratified by the Palmer Board of Trustees is: To maintain collections and create exhibits pertaining to the history of chiropractic and its people, with special emphasis on Palmer Chiropractic. To ensure, preserve and share the rich heritage of chiropractic through education and research. It is the obligation of the Foundation to assume the responsibilities of the collections which are held in trust for the benefit of the present and the future.