Ebby Thacher

Ebby Thacher (1896–1966), born Edwin Throckmorton Thacher, was a significant figure in the early history of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). His full name is often associated with the formative years of AA due to his pivotal role in the sobriety of AA's co-founder, Bill Wilson. Thacher's influence on Wilson and, by extension, on the development of AA's foundational principles, marks him as an important character in the narrative of one of the most influential self-help organizations in the world.

Early Life

Ebby Thacher was born in 1896 in Albany, New York, into a well-to-do family. Despite the advantages afforded by his family's status, Thacher struggled with alcoholism from a young age. His life before AA was marked by a series of personal and professional failures, largely due to his drinking.

Connection to Bill Wilson

Thacher and Wilson were childhood friends, having grown up together in Vermont. Their paths diverged as they became adults, but they were reunited by their mutual struggle with alcoholism. In 1934, Thacher, seeking help for his own drinking problem, was introduced to the Oxford Group, a Christian fellowship that emphasized personal moral inventory, confession of shortcomings, restitution to those harmed, and working with others.

Inspired by the Oxford Group's teachings, Thacher achieved a measure of sobriety. He then visited Wilson, who was still struggling with his addiction, and shared his experience with the Oxford Group. Thacher's visit and his message of hope played a crucial role in Wilson's own journey to sobriety. Wilson's subsequent sobriety led to the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous in 1935, alongside Dr. Bob Smith.

Legacy

While Thacher did not remain sober for the rest of his life, his early influence on Wilson and the formation of AA cannot be overstated. He is often remembered as the man who introduced Wilson to the spiritual principles that would become the cornerstone of Alcoholics Anonymous. Thacher's story is frequently cited in AA literature, serving as a testament to the power of personal transformation and the importance of one alcoholic talking to another.

Death

Ebby Thacher passed away in 1966. Despite his struggles with maintaining sobriety, his contributions to the early development of AA have left a lasting legacy. He is remembered within the AA community with great affection and respect.