The Society of American Florists (SAF) was formed in 1884. Its earliest members came from the American Association of Nurserymen, Florists and Seedsmen. The purpose of the SAF was to have a national organization devoted solely to florists. The organization was opened to both horticultural and floral professionals and amateur garderners. The first convention was held in 1885, and had over 200 members. The International Telegraph Delivery Association (later the Florists Transworld Delivery Association, or FTD) was created within the SAF. The name of the society was expanded in 1897 to the Society of American Florists and Ornamental Horticulturists, even though the abbreviation SAF is still commonly used. In 1901 the SAF was granted a national chapter, signed by President William McKinley.-- Throughout its history, the SAF has had several interest group and committees. These groups included the Florists' Hail Association (to insure members against losses related to hail), the Florists' Protective Association (to protect against other financial losses), the Ladies Society of American Florists, and the Youth Education Program. The SAF has also had a role in lobbying corporations and government bodies. Most of these lobbying efforts have been related to the transportation of floral products and orders.
From the description of Society of American Florists (SAF) : records and book collections, 1793-1993. (National Agricultural Library). WorldCat record id: 631737611
