Improvement in the horticultural standards of orchids 
is assisted in several ways. The Society each year offers a 
number of silver trophies for the most meritorious orchid 
exhibits in the country’s major flower shows. Here, too, 
American Orchid Society awards are granted to outstand- 
ing plants and flowers by duly Certified Judges. Monthly 
judging of orchids is conducted at the Society’s office in 
New York City, to which amateurs and commercial 
growers from any point on the globe may send their flowers 
for evaluation. In addition, gold medals are occasionally 
presented to persons who have made noteworthy contribu- 
tions to the development of orchidology. 
Recognizing the need for further investigations and in- 
creased knowledge, scientific research is encouraged and 
supported by means of grants, publication or other means. 
Close connections are maintained with the country’s lead- 
ing botanical or horticultural institutions whose unstinting 
cooperation is graciously given. 
Because of the broadening of the area of orchid inter- 
est, the American Orchid Society fosters the development 
of local orchid societies, many of which have become 
Afhliates of the national organization. These local societies. 
with their periodic meetings, provide helpful, first-hand 
information through association with other orchid growers 
facing similar problems of culture under similar conditions. 
From the pleasure of sharing experiences and knowledge, 
spring lifetime friendships with persons having like in- 
terests. 
The central office of the American Orchid Society, lo- 
cated at the Botanical Museum of Harvard University, is a 
clearing house for orchid activities and orchid information. 
The staff is always eager to serve, welcoming queries and 
information alike, to the end that, through cooperation, 
the wide world of orchids may become a friendly family 
neighborhood. 
