Clockwise from top left: William Holland Wilmer, center front, and the Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute house staff, 1928–1929; Ed Maumenee (top) and Arnall Patz (seated) pioneered the use of fluorescein angiography; Peter McDonnell, right, and the Wilmer class of 2022; Neil Bressler examines a fundus image.

One can only imagine what the people who experienced the earliest days of the Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute would think of this grand institution today. What began a century ago with an idea has — through imagination, curiosity, thoughtful planning, dedication and hard work — become the world-renowned leader in ophthalmology training, research and patient care that Wilmer is today. In the pages that follow, we share perspectives on and from those who have led this storied institution over the past century, and we take you on a trip down memory lane as we explore some of the historical artifacts and milestones that reflect Wilmer’s rich history.