St. Jude Medical Center has been a cornerstone of community healthcare for over six decades, renowned for its compassionate care and commitment to the highest medical standards. Understanding its present-day prominence requires looking back at its origins. The question, “where is the original St. Jude’s Hospital located?” leads us on a historical journey through dedication, community need, and the unwavering spirit of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange.
From France to California: The Journey Begins
The story of St. Jude Medical Center is deeply intertwined with the legacy of the Sisters of St. Joseph. Founded in 1650 in LePuy, France, by Father Jean-Pierre Medaille, this order was envisioned to be different. Instead of traditional cloistered life, these sisters were called to actively engage with their “dear neighbor,” venturing into communities to address their needs. This pioneering spirit brought six missionaries to St. Louis, Missouri, in 1836, laying the groundwork for their future endeavors in healthcare.
In 1912, Mother Bernard Gosselin, along with six other Sisters, embarked on a journey to Eureka, California, with a mission to establish a school, arriving with just 60 cents. However, the landscape of their ministry shifted dramatically with the influenza epidemic of 1918. Witnessing the community’s suffering, the Sisters adapted, turning their efforts to home-based care for the sick. This experience underscored a critical need: Eureka desperately needed a hospital.
Responding to this urgent call, in 1920, the Sisters took on the challenge of reopening an abandoned 28-bed hospital. St. Joseph Hospital in Eureka was born, marking the official commencement of the Sisters’ healthcare ministry in California. This location in Eureka represents a significant early chapter, though not the answer to “where is the original St. Jude’s Hospital”. It showcases the order’s proactive approach to healthcare needs.
Expansion to Orange County and the Fullerton Precursor
The Sisters’ commitment to expanding healthcare access led them to Orange County. In 1929, they opened St. Joseph Hospital in Orange, further solidifying their presence in California healthcare. Continuing their expansion, in 1931, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange acquired Fullerton General Hospital for $23,000. This acquisition in Fullerton is crucial in understanding the lineage of St. Jude.
However, Fullerton General Hospital faced limitations. By September 1, 1953, the Sisters made a difficult decision to close Fullerton General Hospital. Their unwavering commitment to “highest quality care” meant they would not compromise on standards. This closure, while seemingly a step back, was actually a catalyst for a significant leap forward, directly leading to the establishment of St. Jude Hospital.
The Birth of St. Jude Hospital: Answering the Location Question
The closure of Fullerton General Hospital ignited a community-driven movement. A group of physicians, spearheaded by Dr. Ramiro Fernandez, met with Mother Felix to discuss the possibility of building a new, modern hospital. It was Dr. Fernandez’s wife, Emily, who suggested naming it St. Jude, after the patron saint of desperate situations, reflecting the community’s hope and need.
November 24, 1953, marked a pivotal moment. A hilltop property was blessed and dedicated as the future site of St. Jude Hospital. Businessman Miles Sharkey generously donated the land, specifically stipulating it be used for a hospital. Of the 17 acres acquired, the initial 7.5 acres were deeded to the Sisters for a symbolic $10. This hilltop property in Fullerton, California, is the location of the original St. Jude Hospital.
May 11, 1957, was a day of celebration for Orange County. Over 2000 people gathered in the rain for the grand opening of the new St. Jude Hospital. A local reporter captured the sentiment, declaring, “This is the day we have been waiting for. All of Orange County rejoices over the completion of the ultramodern St. Jude Hospital.” Sister Jane Frances Power, CSJ, became the first president, leading St. Jude for its first 30 years.
Therefore, the original St. Jude’s Hospital is located in Fullerton, California, on the hilltop property dedicated in 1953 and opened in 1957. This is the site that marked the beginning of St. Jude Medical Center as it is known today.
Growth and Legacy in Fullerton
From its opening in 1957, St. Jude Hospital, and later St. Jude Medical Center, has continually expanded its services and facilities at its Fullerton location. Starting with a new 125-bed wing in 1962, doubling its initial capacity, St. Jude has consistently responded to the evolving healthcare needs of the community.
Key milestones followed, including establishing one of the nation’s first Cardiac Care Units in 1964 and Orange County’s first inpatient rehabilitation unit in 1971. Innovation continued with North Orange County’s first Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in 1987 and the region’s first mobile health clinic in 1988. Reflecting its expanded services, the hospital officially became St. Jude Medical Center in 1990.
Further advancements included the St. Jude Breast Center (1997), the Virginia K. Crosson Cancer Center (1998), and specialized centers for cardiology, gastroenterology, rehabilitation, and more. Expansions like the St. Jude Medical Plaza, the Southwest Patient Tower, and the Northwest Tower demonstrate the ongoing growth and commitment to providing cutting-edge medical care at its original Fullerton location.
Conclusion: The Enduring Location and Mission of St. Jude
In conclusion, while the Sisters of St. Joseph’s healthcare journey began in Eureka and included a presence in Orange, the answer to “where is the original St. Jude’s Hospital located?” definitively points to Fullerton, California. This location, blessed in 1953 and opened in 1957, represents the culmination of the Sisters’ dedication and the community’s need for advanced, compassionate healthcare. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a leading medical center, St. Jude Medical Center in Fullerton stands as a testament to its founding mission and enduring commitment to the well-being of the community it serves.
