Kilmichael Hospital celebrates 50th anniversary

Kilmichael Hospital recently celebrated their 50th anniversary with two days of fun, food and games for employees and the community they serve.

The hospital officially opened in 1955. But according to hospital history, Dr. Luther Crull moved to Kilmichael in 1949, after having a small practice in Winona. Prior to that, he had an office in the Winona Infirmary. A small clinic was constructed for Dr. Crull's practice in Kilmichael and he soon began doctoring in the community.

Recognizing that many residents were farmers and had demanding working hours, Dr. Crull expanded his hours into the evening. Soon after, he was performing surgery and delivering babies too. Polly's Kitchen provided the dietary services. Later, because of growth, the clinic moved to occupy what is now known as the Schultz House.

In 1954, plans were made to construct a small hospital with funds from the national Hill-Burton Act. The hospital was completed in 1955 and the doors opened for business on July 20.