history

Nantucket Cottage Hospital was founded in 1911, conceived by the visions of Dr. John S. Grouard and Dr. Benjamin Sharp.

Dr. Grouard referred to the isolated island life in 1911 when he said:

Increasingly higher value placed on human life is an indication of higher civilization. To conserve human life on this isolated island, it is imperative that the conditions under which medicine and surgery are practiced must be superseded by more modern ones.

In 1912, Dr. Sharp spoke of his search for a sturdy structure to transform into Nantucket's first hospital:

Our hope, and longings, are for the hospital. But no house turned up in the accessible parts of town which did not have a next-door neighbor who objected.

Despite objecting neighbors and other obstacles, Dr. Sharp and his colleagues persevered, and in December 1912, the Hospital Endowment Committee purchased the old Charles Este homestead on West Chester Street for $6,000.

Nantucket Cottage Hospital was born.

The original small Cottage Hospital on West Chester Street grew apace with the island community's needs. In 1957, the Hospital opened new facilities at its current site, 57 Prospect Street. It was no coincidence that the new Nantucket Cottage Hospital opened on Florence Nightingale's birthday, May 12. The "Lady with the Lamp" was chosen as the symbol for the hospital, a constant reminder of our high professional standards and the personal care and attention we provide each patient.

Historically, Nantucket Cottage Hospital has responded to the needs of the community and its demands for quality healthcare. After more than 90 years, the Hospital continues to give quality care for all who enter her doors.