When did AA hold its first meeting?

Three men met in Akron, Ohio, in 1935, forming the first group that evolved into Alcoholics Anonymous. A second group formed in New York that same year, and a third group formed in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1939. AA considers all three as founding groups of the organization, according to AA.

Bill W. shared with Dr. Bob S. that alcoholism is a disease of the mind, emotions and body, states AA. Dr. Bob's association with the Oxford group in Akron, Ohio, failed to help his addiction to alcohol. Bill benefited from the spiritual influence of a minister, medical help from a physician, and the support of an old friend. He attained sobriety and went on to work with alcoholics, although they were unsuccessful. Bill and Dr. Bob used the mind-emotions-body approach to help a third alcoholic attain sobriety.