The Cullum Geographical Medal, was established in 1896 and was the first medal to be awarded by AGS. It was founded by a bequest from Major General George W. Cullum of the United States Army who was also a Vice President of AGS from 1874 until his death in 1892. According to the terms of General Cullum’s will, the medal was to be awarded “…to those who distinguish themselves by geographical discoveries, or in the advancement of geographical science.” The medal was designed by Lydia K. Emmet.