The Cushing Center, located two floors below ground within the Cushing/Whitney Medical Library, is arguably as unique as the collection itself.

Named for 1891 Yale College graduate, Harvey Cushing, M.D., the father of modern neurosurgery, the Cushing Center houses more than the 400 jars of patients' brains and tumors; it also houses a selection from Cushing’s book collection—thousands of first and second editions of major medical and scientific text from the 11th century through the 18th—and a few of the many books penned by Cushing himself. A body of work whose artistic significance rivals its medical and historic significance, the exhibit also includes Cushing's skillful surgical illustrations and dramatic black and white portraits of his patients.

Visiting the Center

Anyone interested in seeing this unique collection is invited to visit the Cushing Center. To enter the Center an active Yale Proximity ID Card is required. Visitors without an active Yale Proximity ID Card may register as visitors at the Medical Library’s Circulation Desk. Library staff will provide visitors with a Cushing Center Proxy Card that will permit them to enter the space.

Exploring the Collection

There is much to see and discover in the Cushing Center so we encourage you to explore. In addition to the specimens on display, take time to view the videos, browse the books, open the drawers beneath the exhibit cases, light up the vitrines to get a better view of some of Dr. Cushing’s most prized books and manuscripts, and fold out the large poster display doors to view reproductions of Cushing’s own artwork, and more.

Each week we offer two tours: Thursday at 2:00 and Friday at 10:00. There is no need to sign up, just come to the Cushing Center. The tour lasts one hour. If you would like to schedule a tour at another time, send a message to lynn.sette@yale.edu. Please mark the subject line Cushing Center Tour and include the department, the number of attendees and several convenient dates.