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Our History
Prior to the creation of Jefferson County Memorial Hospital, the closest hospital to the area was 22 miles away. To fix this issue, the people of Winchester and surrounding communities formed a hospital committee. The committee was started in 1949, making history for today.
On January 23, 1950, a public meeting was held at the County Courthouse in Oskaloosa, resulting in the adoption of a list of recommendations for proceeding. Meetings continued for another year or two as the committees worked toward a decision on the type of building, it's size, and location.
Early in 1952, Winchester was chosen as the most suitable location and the project architect, Glen V. Carson, was selected. In April of 1953, construction began for the original 25-bed Jefferson County Memorial Hospital.
Donations large and small were made by citizens and other concerned individuals—even some of whom that had moved to other areas. Stock in the corporation sold for $100 per share and each share entitled the holder to one vote.
A thrift shop, established by women of the Winchester community, became one of the main financial resources for the project. The store sold anything from food to clothing and became a form of trading post for the area. This method financed a large percentage of the materials for the build and nearly all of the labor was donated by local community members.
On February 21, 1956, the 25-bed Jefferson County Memorial Hospital was dedicated. However, it was only a few years later that hospital expansion was needed. In May of 1965, the North Wing (currently rooms 11-21) was completed. On July 14, 1965, the final payment on the mortgage was made and the edition was free and clear.
Next came the nursing home. Established in the late 1950s, the nursing home consisted of two and a half wings (currently wings B, D, and part of C). In January of 1973, patients and equipment were moved into the new building. A Wing (Jefferson Suites) was completed in 1976 and the rest of C Wing in 1977.
From the original 25-bed hospital to the current version of F.W. Huston Medical Center, there has been a continued pioneer spirit of love, care, and devotion to the health of the surrounding community that will only continue to grow.