The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada traces its origins to the formation of the Toronto Astronomical Club in 1868. In 1890 the club was incorporated as the Astronomical and Physical Society of Toronto and in 1903 the name was changed to the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, (R.A.S.C.). The society is composed of those interested in astronomy, both professionals and amateurs; it has expanded from a local organization based in Toronto to a national organization which in 1967 had 17 centres across Canada and 2300 members.