Lexington, September 7, 2025
News Summary
As Lexington celebrates its 250th anniversary, it honors Saint Joseph Hospital, a vital part of the city’s healthcare history since 1877. Founded by Father John Bekkers and the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, the hospital has continually provided accessible healthcare to all. It has also been recognized for pioneering heart care and community health initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to serving diverse populations in Lexington.
Lexington – As Lexington celebrates its 250th anniversary, it also pays tribute to the profound impact of Saint Joseph Hospital, whose history intertwines with that of the city, shaping the fabric of healthcare since its inception in the post-Civil War era. Established in 1877, the hospital was the vision of Father John Bekkers and the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, who have worked to provide all patients with accessible healthcare regardless of religion, race, or financial means.
The hospital’s roots can be traced back to 1866 when it was initially located at 320 Linden Walk, near Rose and Maxwell streets. The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth were founded in Bardstown in 1812, focusing on education, nursing, and care for orphans. They adopted a pioneer-style habit that consisted of a cape, apron, and sunbonnet, reflecting their commitment to service.
In 1823, the Sisters established the first Catholic academy, Saint Catherine Academy, in White Sulphur, which was later relocated to Lexington in 1833. Years later, in 1873, Father Bekkers sought to establish a hospital in Lexington, advocating for a facility that would treat individuals irrespective of their backgrounds. Initially, the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth declined the proposal due to financial constraints, which led to the Sisters of Mercy from St. Louis managing the hospital in 1874. However, they struggled to maintain profitability.
After further fundraising difficulties, Bekkers once again approached the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Their agreement on October 2, 1877, led to the arrival of five nuns, led by Mother Catherine Spalding, to oversee the hospital’s operations. In its first year, the hospital treated 195 patients and charged approximately 50 cents per day, which is equivalent to around $15 today.
By 1878, the hospital moved to Second Street, where it remained until 1959, when it relocated to the current site on Harrodsburg Road. A significant advancement came in 1918 when the Sisters founded a nursing school at the hospital, which trained over 500 nurses until its closure in 1964. The Lincoln Memorial University Caylor School of Nursing now occupies the grounds of the hospital, continuing a legacy of education.
Saint Joseph Hospital gained recognition as “Lexington’s Heart Hospital” for its pioneering heart care, performing the first heart catheterization in central Kentucky in 1954 and the first open-heart surgery in Lexington in 1959. This commitment to healthcare equity has persevered through the years, consistently honoring Bekkers’ vision of accessibility.
In recent years, Saint Joseph Hospital expanded its services, collaborating with the American Cancer Society to launch a cancer clinic aimed at low-income patients. Furthermore, in 2024, Saint Joseph Hospital and Saint Joseph East provided $235,000 in funding to six community organizations focused on substance use disorders, mental health, and healthy living. Their Saint Joseph Health Foundation offers essential programs like Yes, Mamm! and Yes Cerv!, providing free mammograms and cervical cancer screenings to uninsured or underinsured women.
As Lexington recognizes its 250 years, the legacy of Saint Joseph Hospital remains a testament to community, compassion, and the enduring spirit of service upheld by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Emphasizing the importance of accessible healthcare, the hospital has created a rich history that not only shaped Lexington’s healthcare but also improved the lives within the community.
FAQ
1. When was Saint Joseph Hospital established?
Saint Joseph Hospital was established on October 2, 1877.
2. Who founded the hospital?
The hospital was established by Father John Bekkers and the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth.
3. What was the hospital’s initial purpose?
The hospital was created to serve all patients, regardless of religion, race, or ability to pay.
4. Did the hospital have any educational facilities?
Yes, the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth opened a nursing school at the hospital in 1918, training over 500 nurses until 1964.
5. What notable medical advancements has the hospital made?
Saint Joseph Hospital performed the first heart catheterization in central Kentucky in 1954 and the first open-heart surgery in Lexington in 1959.
Key Features of Saint Joseph Hospital
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Establishment | October 2, 1877 |
| Founders | Father John Bekkers and the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth |
| Initial Purpose | To serve all patients regardless of background |
| Nursing School | Opened in 1918, trained over 500 nurses |
| Heart Hospital | Performed first heart catheterization in 1954 and first open-heart surgery in 1959 |
| Community Funding | $235,000 provided to community organizations in 2024 |
| Health Services | Free cancer screenings for uninsured women |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Saint Joseph Health Hospitals Achieve National Recognition
Progress in the Fight Against Lung Cancer in Kentucky
Leapfrog Safety Grades Reveal Concerning Metrics for Central Kentucky Hospitals
Kentucky Announces Significant Leadership Changes and Honors
Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Know Your Kentucky
- Wikipedia: Lexington, Kentucky
- Kentucky.com: Local News Article
- Google Search: Saint Joseph Hospital Lexington
- Kentucky.com: Weather News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hospital
- Kentucky.com: Fayette County News
- Google News: Healthcare in Kentucky
- Spectrum News: Lexington Shooting Spree
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