About Us
Our History
The Seeing Eye is a philanthropic organization whose mission is to enhance the independence, dignity, and self-confidence of blind people through the use of Seeing Eye® dogs.
The world's oldest guide dog school.
Early History
In 1927, a young man named Morris Frank read an article about dogs being trained as guides for blinded veterans of World War I. Frustrated by his own lack of mobility as a blind person, he was inspired to ask for help from the article’s author: Dorothy Harrison Eustis. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Dorothy was now living in Switzerland, where she bred and trained German shepherd dogs for use by the police and military. When she received Morris Frank’s letter, she agreed to help him. He promised he would return to the United States and spread the word about these wonderful dogs.
On June 11, 1928, having completed instruction in Switzerland, Morris arrived in New York City, proving the ability of his dog, Buddy, by navigating a dangerous street crossing before throngs of news reporters. His one-word telegram to Dorothy told the entire story: “Success.” The Seeing Eye was born with the dream of making the entire world accessible to people who are blind.
Morris Frank and Dorothy Harrison Eustis are the co-founders of The Seeing Eye. Dorothy served as the first president and Morris as the managing director.
Morris Frank and Buddy cross a city street. In 1928, after proving to skeptical reporters that Buddy really could guide him safely, he sent a one-word telegram to Dorothy Harrison Eustis: "Success."
Dates & Locations
The Seeing Eye was incorporated in Nashville, Tennessee, on January 29, 1929.
A month later, The Seeing Eye graduated its first two students: Dr. Raymond Harris with his Seeing Eye dog, Tartar, and Dr. Howard Buchanan with his Seeing Eye dog, Gala. The instructors were Jack Humphrey, Adelaide Clifford, and Willi Ebeling.
In 1931, the organization relocated to Whippany, New Jersey, because the climate in the northeast was more suitable for training dogs.
On June 5, 1965, the cornerstone was laid for the current headquarters in Morris Township, N.J. Renovations to the Washington Valley headquarters were completed in 2013. The 60-acre campus is home to the administrative offices, student residence, veterinary clinic and kennels.
In 2001, a breeding station was built on 330 acres in Chester, N.J., which houses the adult breeding dogs and puppies until they are 8-weeks-old. An additional training center is located in downtown Morristown.
The Seeing Eye's first graduating class: three instructors, two students.
1931: The Seeing Eye moves from Nashville to Whippany, New Jersey. The Whippany House was The Seeing Eye's home from 1931 to 1965.
Pioneers from Past to Present
The Seeing Eye is the oldest existing guide dog school in the world and continues its role as a pioneer in the guide dog movement. The Seeing Eye has played an integral part in shaping public policy guaranteeing access and accommodation to people who use service animals.
From developing a computer information system that calculates the suitability of every dog in the colony to become a breeder, to funding cutting edge research in DNA sequencing and identifying genetic markers for degenerative eye disease, The Seeing Eye is a research leader in canine genetics, breeding, disease control and behavior. The organization is a founding member of the Council of U.S. Guide dog Schools and a fully accredited member of the International Guide Dog Federation.
We excel with the help of donors like you.
Please help us reach more milestones and make a gift today!
Looking Back... and Looking Ahead
In 2024, The Seeing Eye celebrated our 95th anniversary. Since 1929, we have made more than 18,000 matches… and counting! As we close in on our 100th anniversary and 20,000 partnerships, The Seeing Eye thanks you for your support of our mission. We couldn’t do it without you.
