List of A.A. Groups as of August 1948 — With Original Contributions Insert
Published by The Alcoholic Foundation, Inc.
An exceptionally early directory documenting the remarkable growth of Alcoholics Anonymous only thirteen years after its founding.
Published by The Alcoholic Foundation in August 1948, this confidential directory lists A.A. groups throughout the United States, U.S. possessions, Canada, and 23 other countries. Entries include group names, estimated membership figures, mailing addresses, telephone numbers, and local contact information.
The directory records 2,429 groups and an estimated worldwide membership of 67,850, including groups operating in 48 hospitals and 55 prisons. Its cover explains that the directory was distributed only to group secretaries and a limited number of A.A. members who traveled extensively:
“This is a confidential list, to be used for AA purposes only.”
Also included is the original large folded insert titled “We Gratefully Acknowledge,” recording voluntary contributions made by individual A.A. groups toward the operating expenses of the General Service Office between February 1 and July 31, 1948. Together, the directory and contribution record provide a detailed snapshot of A.A.’s rapidly expanding fellowship and early service structure.
Item Details
Title: List of A.A. Groups as of August 1948
Publisher: The Alcoholic Foundation, Inc.
Date: August 1948
Format: Stapled softcover directory
Included: Original folded General Service Office contributions insert
Condition: Excellent overall condition. The directory remains clean and well preserved, with light age toning and only minor handling wear. The large folded insert retains its original folds and is also exceptionally well preserved. Please review all photographs for condition details.
A scarce and information-rich piece of early Alcoholics Anonymous history, particularly desirable for collectors and researchers interested in the fellowship’s geographic growth, membership, individual groups, and emerging worldwide service network.
