History of the Sault Ste Marie General Hospital Inc

The General Hospital was founded in 1898 by the Grey Sisters of the Cross from Ottawa. Taking their inspiration from their foundress, Marguerite d'Youville, their mission was to serve the poor and sick.

The Sault Ste. Marie town fathers had turned to the Grey Sisters on the advice of the provincial Inspector of Asylums and Prisons who urged them, "If you wish a hospital of which the work is serious and lasting, ask the Grey Sisters." They began their work first in a house on Bay Street, then in a newly-constructed 80-bed hospital at the former Queen Street location.

In 1926, ownership was transferred to the Pembroke-based Grey Sisters of the Immaculate Conception. The hospital grew with the city and new wings were added in 1908 (the same year the nursing school opened), 1922 and 1953. In 1963, following a joint fundraising campaign with the Plummer, the hospital was almost completely rebuilt. The General Hospital celebrated its centennial in 1998, transferring sponsorship that same year to the Catholic Health Corporation of Ontario.

Throughout its history, Marguerite d'Youville's spirit of love and compassion for one another and for the poor, the sick and the orphan, has inspired the many caregivers who have dedicated their lives to healing the sick.

Past General Hospital Board Chairs