At 139 N. Penn Avenue in Salina, Kansas, the abandoned St. John’s Hospital stands as a poignant reminder of the town’s rich history and the challenges of preserving its architectural heritage. Constructed in 1914 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Concordia, the hospital served the community for nearly a century before ceasing operations in 2010.
A Glimpse into the Past
Designed in the early 20th century, the hospital’s architecture reflects the era’s hospital design trends, featuring a Y-shaped Italian Renaissance structure. The building’s block plan layout, with wide double-loaded corridors and separate wings for different departments, was innovative for its time.
Challenges and Preservation Efforts
After its closure, the building faced the threat of demolition due to its deteriorating condition and the high costs associated with renovation. In 2014, Salina Regional Health Center sought approval to demolish the facility, but the Salina City Commission denied the request, citing the building’s historical significance and the potential for adaptive reuse.
Subsequent efforts to repurpose the hospital included a proposal by Comprise Community Development Company to convert the site into affordable senior housing. However, this plan did not come to fruition, and the building remained vacant and increasingly deteriorated.
A New Chapter
Despite its abandoned state, the former St. John’s Hospital continues to attract those interested in the history of Salina and the challenges of preserving historical buildings. While the future of the hospital remains uncertain, its presence serves as a testament to the town’s past and the ongoing efforts to preserve its architectural heritage.
