SALEM — Hospital leaders, employees, and local officials gathered at Salem Hospital on Tuesday to celebrate the institution’s 150th anniversary, marking a century and a half of service to the North Shore.
“Throughout the past 150 years, our dedicated team has come together to care for this community in times of war, pandemic, and at times of exciting growth and discovery,” hospital President Roxanne Ruppel said. “But no matter what the circumstances, dedication and compassion remain our enduring legacy.”
Speakers reflected on Salem Hospital’s long history dating back to the late 19th century when wealthy Salem ship owner John Bertram secured a charter from the commonwealth of Massachusetts to found a hospital in Salem for those in need.
Bertram recognized that few in the community could afford the private health care that he received in his home after falling ill, prompting him to donate $25,000 and a brick mansion at 31 Charter St. to house the new hospital.
Opening with only 12 beds, the hospital would receive its very first patient on Oct. 1, 1874, when a 28-year-old pregnant housewife was admitted after accidently falling into a kettle of boiling water. After three months of care for burns on her arms and abdomen, she was released, only to return a month later to give birth to a healthy baby.
“This story reminds us of our shared purpose and how important we are to the patients and families in this community,” Ruppel said.
The 12-bed hospital eventually grew to 76 beds and would serve the community for nearly 40 years, before being destroyed in the Great Fire of Salem in 1914. Three years later, the Salem Hospital reopened on Highland Avenue with 135 beds. The hospital remains at that same location today- now with 371 licensed beds.
“Salem Hospital, in addition to being our largest employer here, is an integral part of our community,” Mayor Dominick Pangallo said.
“Whether we’re talking about our transportation needs, employment, workforce, or education needs – Salem Hospital is at the center of the conversation, and has been for centuries.”
“Over the years, we have continued to grow and change to meet the needs of our diverse and vibrant communities,” Ruppel said.
“From enriching our emergency, obstetrical, medical, and surgical capabilities, to developing a complex network of outpatient resources, to operating a 120-bed acute care psychiatric facility, to partnering with community health centers to serve those most in need, we have continually focused on providing exceptional, comprehensive care to all who turn to us.”
Michael McHugh can be contacted at mmchugh@northofboston.com or at 781-799-5202