Lorain Community Hospital Dedication – May 3, 1964

Sixty years ago today, Lorain Community Hospital was dedicated.

As reported by Lou Kepler on the front page of the Journal on Monday, May 4, 1964, "Thousands of Lorain's citizens saw their Lorain Community Hospital dedicated yesterday afternoon to its sacred use, "a token of the wisdom and goodness of the Lorain community," Mayor Mathna said.

"The day was perfect. The sun shone. Amid a flurry of drums and music from the combined Lorain High School and St. Mary High School bands, a flag fluttered as it was raised in front of the new structure. Roberta Kalassay sang the Star Spangled Banner. It was one of Lorain's great days and an auspicious beginning.

"Rabbi Samuel Meyer asked that it be a structure symbolizing peace, brotherhood and tranquility and a feeling of responsibility for one's neighbor with compassion and mercy.

"Coupled with the accomplishment of a new hospital was the responsibility for Lorain's future as expressed by Edward R. Mehrer, president of the hospital board of trustees. He asked the citizenry to support other projects of Mayor Mathna, namely the City Hall, Harbor Commission and a Master Plan so that Lorain could know where it is going and how to get there.

"Mehrer paid tribute to the band of women known as the Community and Civic Affairs Department who, with its funds and effort, spearheaded the drive for the new hospital.

"He commended City Council, the mayor, the hospital committee, people who collected pictures, painted them, framed them and the voters who marked "Yes" on the bond issue.

"Rep. Charles A. Mosher spoke of the admiration of Lorain from the surrounding communities. "I don't believe you realize how important and dynamic your city is, or your potential," he said."

Here are some pages from the Journal covering the dedication. 

Lorain and the surrounding area are mighty lucky that Lorain Community became a reality. With the closing of St. Joseph Hospital in the 1990s, Lorain would probably have been in the same positions of many other communities, with no hospital at all. 

It's comforting to know that Mercy Health – Lorain Hospital keeps the caring tradition alive on Kolbe Road.