[South African family doctor's contribution to public health during the period 1900-1950].

During the period 1900-1950 the general or family practitioners made significant contributions to the health care in South Africa. The historical details of these contributions were not always documented and are difficult to trace. The Department of Family Medicine is anxious to preserve this part of South African medical history and a research project to further this effort was carried out. All possible sources of information were used. Chairs of medical history should be established in our medical faculties.