MY TWO UNDER FOUR!: WILL AND CHARLIE

Any book, pamphlet, handout, lecture, or tour dealing with Mayo Clinic begins with a brief history. Normally, it's something like this (taken from the Mayo Clinic website) :

Mayo Clinic developed gradually from the medical practice of a pioneer doctor, Dr. William Mayo, who settled in Rochester, MN in 1863. His dedication to medicine became a family tradition when his sons, Dr. William and Dr. Charles Mayo joined his practice in the late 1800's. From the beginning, innovation was their standard and they shared a pioneering zeal for medicine. As the demand for their services increased, they asked other doctors and basic science researchers to join them in the world's first private integrated group practice. Although the Mayo doctors were initially viewed as unconventional for practicing medicine through this teamwork approach, the benefits of a private group practice were undeniable.

Perhaps the most recognized display of Mayo Clinic history are the bronzed statues of Dr. William and Dr. Charles Mayo at the center of our downtown campus. We locals simply refer to them as "Will and Charlie." They are in the background of every department photo. They are the meeting spot when connecting with a friend for lunch. The statues are always surrounded by pristine landscaping and exude courageousness, dedication, and commitment.