This society was founded by five Natchez, Mississippi physicians--A. Perlee, J.A. Denny, Wm. R. Cox, Thomas S. Chew, and Wm. M. Waktins--to provide "...Medical attendance and accomodation (sic) for Poor Sick Strangers and others who may be objects of Charity..." to "most effectually [contribute] to the relief of such persons." Through its constitution and by-laws the society established fees for the treatment of various types of patients, including enslaved persons. By 1821 nine other physicians practicing in Natchez joined the Association.