W.B. Saunders Company

Founded in Philadelphia in 1888 by Walter Burns Saunders, W.B. Saunders Company built its reputation on medical and health-science publishing. Over time it became especially associated with reference works and textbooks used by students and professionals, including well-known medical titles such as Dorland’s works.

The company stayed independent for decades before being acquired by CBS in 1968 and later passing to Harcourt Brace Jovanovich when CBS exited publishing in 1986. After Harcourt was acquired by Reed Elsevier in 2001, Saunders continued as an imprint rather than a standalone company.

Today, the Saunders name is most often remembered as one of the classic American medical publishing brands. Its long history, including a centennial company history published in 1988, reflects the important role it played in the growth of modern medical education and reference publishing.