Our Journey
A century of compassionate care, growth, and innovation
City Hospital Completed
The 35-bed City Hospital officially opened on Monday, August 2, 1926. Three surgeries were performed earlier that day, followed by an evening dedication ceremony attended by more than 5,000 people. Miss Mayme Ratcliffe served as hospital superintendent.
Nursing Students' House
In May of 1930, this house was used for housing nursing students who received their training at City Hospital. A total of 64 students graduated from this school of nursing before its closing in 1934 due to a lack of instructors.
City Hospital Expansion
By 1946, City Hospital had outgrown its original facilities. After considerable public controversy, a city ordinance was passed approving an expansion to accommodate 100 to 125 patients. The facility became known as the Bowling Green–Warren County Hospital.
First Cancer Clinic
On October 7, 1946, the City Hospital established its first-ever cancer clinic. From Sept. 1, 1947, to Aug. 1, 1948, 128 patients received X-ray therapy, and more than 300 patients were served overall. Funding was provided through donations from the local Community Chest and the American Cancer Society.
Blood Bank Established
In 1949, City Hospital took steps toward establishing an adequate blood bank under the leadership of Dr. John C. McKissick. On April 21, Dr. McKissick became the first donor in the newly launched program. By noon, 58 pints of blood had been collected.
Second Expansion Dedication
On September 10, 1952, dedication and cornerstone ceremonies for the addition were conducted, drawing approximately 1,800 people. By October 1953, the expansion was complete, adding 75 patient beds, two emergency rooms, an autopsy room and morgue, operating rooms, and a pharmacy.
Cancer Clinic Recognized
The City-County Hospital's Cancer Clinic was recognized for its important work in combating cancer in Southcentral Kentucky. The clinic was meeting once a week at the hospital, with doctors and their support staff volunteering. Those who could not pay received free care.
Hospital Outgrown Again
Just three years after the 1953 expansion, Hospital Administrator Charles H. Clark announced the hospital had once again outgrown its facilities. After five years of planning and fundraising, ground was broken on the City-County hospital's latest expansion in 1961.
Major Expansion
Construction was complete on May 11, 1963. This expansion added 66 patient beds, a front lobby, a coffee shop, a prayer room, a conference room, and a classroom, along with expansions to the Laboratory, X-Ray Department, and dining room. This expansion cost $1.4 million.
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