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Bryn Mawr Hospital – founded 1893
Bryn Mawr Hospital in 1893
130 South Bryn Mawr Avenue
In 1892 the country was staggering under an economic depression and on the verge of financial collapse, but the desire of Dr. George Gerhard, an Ardmore physician, to build a hospital in the growing suburbs of Philadelphia, took shape at a tea party in Merion Square, hosted by his friend Rodman Griscom. The initial fundraising began and in January, 1892, application for the charter was accepted and incorporation took place 3 months later. Using the initial contributions, a 2 acre lot on the corner of Bryn Mawr Ave. and County Line Road was purchased. The location was chosen because Bryn Mawr had become a favorite town for city residents to visit, in the hot summer months.

The generosity of the community was exceptional and the actual construction of the Hospital was oversubscribed. Gifts of cash and various hospital supplies were received. The new building, designed by Frank Furness, was, for its day, very modern, with an elevator and electric lights.

When the Hospital opened in 1893, Dr. George Gerhard and Dr. Robert Gamble were in charge of the public needs. A list of rules was initiated "For the government of the patients, nurses and attendants of the Bryn Mawr Hospital." The weekly charge for the room included a prescribed diet, attendance of a resident physician, surgical dressings, and general attendance of nurses. It did NOT include the professional services of the visiting physician or surgeon, nor did it include medicines, wine, spirituous or malt liquors. Wood fires in the fire places were provided when requested. Hours for meals: Breakfast served at 7:30 from May 1st to October 1st, and at 8:00 during the rest of the year; Dinner at 9 PM, and tea from 6:00 to 6:30 PM. Lights out at 8:30 PM in the ward and 10:30 PM in the remainder of the Hospital. Smoking was not permitted in the Hospital wards, waiting rooms or halls.

Bryn Mawr Hospital
Today, the Gerhard Building stands, surrounded by new and larger buildings, that make up the Bryn Mawr Hospital complex.


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