Opening the New Galt Hospital

Opening of Galt Hospital by Sir Wilfred Laurier

Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa, 19831002000

In 1907, just one year after miners went on a nine-month strike, Eliott T Galt donated $30,000 for the construction of a larger hospital in Lethbridge. The city matched this amount, and a new hospital was built to replace the 1891 hospital building which was no longer large enough to serve the community. The new Galt Hospital, which we know today as the Galt Museum & Archives, opened in 1910. With this addition, the hospital could now accommodate 65 patients.

The 1910 Galt Hospital was designed by architect Arnold W. Brunner who had personal connections to the Galt family. Similarities can be seen between the Galt Hospital and Brunner’s much more well-known buildings in New York.

Galt Hospital Building
Image courtesy of the Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa, P19760208112

Citizens of Lethbridge were honoured when Prime Minister of Canada Sir Wilfred Laurier accepted their invitation to come to Lethbridge and formally open the new Galt Hospital. On September 1, 1910, a large crowd of Lethbridge citizens came out to see the opening of their new hospital.

In the excitement of having the Prime Minister attend the opening, the coordinator of proceedings misplaced the front door key. Despite some embarrassment from fumbling around looking for the key, the opening was a momentous occasion for Lethbridge which was fondly remembered by those who attended.

Galt School of Nursing Class of 1913, Lillian Donaldson, Lucy Hatch, Elizabeth Patteson (Galt School of Nursing)

Image courtesy of the Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa, 19760225045

It was at this time in 1910 that the Galt School of Nursing first opened its doors. Hundreds of dedicated nurses studied and worked here during the school’s history. The first graduating class, in 1913, was composed of only 3 graduates: Lillian Donaldson, Lucy Hatch, and Elizabeth Patteson.

The program had many strict rules. Students had to live in residence. Work and study filled nearly all their time. As a result, strong bonds were forged between student nurses. Despite the tough conditions, student nurses always found time to have fun. Many remain close friends today.

When the Galt Hospital closed in 1955, the school was relocated. It continued at the new Lethbridge Municipal Hospital until 1979.

Learn more about the history of medical care in Lethbridge by visiting Taking Care, the museum’s newest exhibit on permanent display.