AA Grapevine from January 1951 - Tribute to Dr. Bob
AA Grapevine — January 1951
Tribute to Dr. Bob Issue
A Dedicated Memorial to the Co-Founder of Alcoholics Anonymous
Publication: AA Grapevine
Date: January 1951
Format: Staple-bound magazine
Publisher: Alcoholics Anonymous Grapevine, Inc.
Description
This is the January 1951 “Tribute to Dr. Bob” issue of the AA Grapevine, entirely dedicated to the life, service, and legacy of Dr. Robert Smith, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. Issued shortly after Dr. Bob’s passing on November 16, 1950, this special memorial number stands as one of the most moving and historically significant single issues ever published by the Grapevine.
The issue opens with a full dedication:
“For 120,000 of us … and for the thousands yet to come … we who have cause for eternal gratitude dedicate this issue of the AA Grapevine to the memory of the co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, our beloved Dr. Bob.”
At the heart of the issue is a deeply reflective tribute written by Bill W., honoring Dr. Bob’s humility, faith, medical service, and quiet leadership. Bill’s remembrance captures not only the public figure known to the Fellowship, but the deeply spiritual and compassionate man who personally ministered to thousands of alcoholics in Akron and beyond.
This issue offers a rare contemporary perspective on Dr. Bob’s life as seen by those who knew him, worked alongside him, and were directly saved by his service. It is both a historical document and a spiritual testament to the foundations of AA.
Historical Significance
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Memorial issue honoring Dr. Bob following his death in November 1950
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Features a moving tribute by Bill W.
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Documents the Fellowship’s collective gratitude at a pivotal moment in AA history
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One of the most sought-after early Grapevine issues for collectors
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Represents AA at the threshold of major growth in the early 1950s
For collectors of Alcoholics Anonymous history, this issue occupies a place of special reverence, marking the loss of AA’s co-founder and celebrating the enduring legacy of his service.
Condition
Overall Condition: Excellent for age. Clean, bright pages. Staples secure. Includes original order forms (often missing). No noted writing or markings.
Please review all photos carefully for an exact representation of condition.
Summary
A powerful and historically important AA Grapevine issue dedicated entirely to Dr. Bob—his life, his faith, and his immeasurable contribution to Alcoholics Anonymous. An essential piece for collectors of AA literature and early Grapevine history, and a deeply meaningful artifact from the Fellowship’s formative years.
