AA History

[MajestyJo]

AA History

In “The Doctor’s Opinion,” Dr. Silkworth described a
patient brought to him for treatment of chronic alcoholism
who had only partially recovered from a gastric hemorrhage,
and seemed to be in a pathological state of mental deterioration.

This man was Hank P. His story in the first edition of the Big
Book was titled "The Unbeliever" (Experience, Strength &
Hope, page 5). Hank worked for Standard Oil of New Jersey.
He was a high-pressure kind of guy. He was called a "promoter
among promoters". He was a partner with Bill W in the Honor
Dealers Car Polish Company, which they started to earn some
money while AA was still being developed. Hank also wrote
Chapter 7 of the Big Book, "Working with Others.” Alcoholics Anonymous, AA, and the Big Book are registered trademarks of Alcoholics Anonymous World Services. Just For Today is neither endorsed by, approved by, associated, nor affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous World Services, Inc., or The AA Grapevine, Inc.

2009

AA History
At the end of “Bill’s Story,” he mentions, “One poor chap
committed suicide in my home. He could not, or would not,
see our way of life.”

The “poor chap” was Bill C., who was a "guest" of Bill and
Lois for nearly a year in their home at 182 Clinton Street. He
was a lawyer and gambler (professional bridge player).

In the summer of 1936, upon returning home from visiting
Fitz M and others in Maryland, Bill W. opened the door of
their home to be met by the strong smell of the natural gas
that Bill C. had used to end his life.

Over the next few months, Bill and Lois discovered that their
late house guest had been secretively selling off all of their
good dress clothes to finance his drinking and gambling.

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