Did you know that St. Mary’s Infirmary was built in 1877? It was the first hospital established by the Sisters of St. Mary’s. It was conducted as a general hospital to care for the sick and poor. This institution was not only a haven for the sick, but it was achieved as being the first permanent home and hospital along with the school of Nursing.
The institution grew rapidly with new additions in 1896 and 1905. The new Mother house was opened in 1924 at 1100 Bellevue avenue. It became the St. Louis University hospital until the Firmin Desloge Hospital was completed at 1325 South Grand Blvd in 1933. At this time, changes in society were needed to alleviate the suffering of the Negro.
Sister Mother Mary Concordia offered Mayor Dickman the use of the facility. In 1933, Saint Mary’s Infirmary was opened regardless of race or color, until Homer G. Phillips was opened in June 1937.
It was found at this time a need to educate qualified, Negro girls in nursing. On October 7, 1933, the first class was started, under the direction of Sister Mary Dechantell. It offered a three year diploma which led to the distinction of becoming the first Black Catholic institution for Negroes.
Mrs. Audrey Rivers R.N. BS., was one of the first graduate nurses, along with Mrs. Eunice Parks Lane, who was also the first registered X-Ray technician. Both are still actively recognized by the SMI Alumni.
The School of Nursing had course affiliation with St. Louis University, members of the medical staff and qualified lay instructors. Since May 1933, they’ve graduated over 300 professional African-American nurses. Their experiences include the following: building nursing schools in Zimbabwe, assisting the Red Cross in disaster areas, being authors, directors of nurses, supervisors, Head Start nurses, psychiatric nurses, pediatric nurses and a flight nurse with the Wings of Hope.
St. Mary’s Infirmary was closed in 1958, during the Civil Rights Movement’s changes in society. Most of all, our school is extremely proud of the nuns who participated in the March on Selma, which helped to end segregation. This was instrumental in the President signing the Civil Rights Act. We also give honor to Sister Antonio Ebo R.N. for participation in this historical event.
The SMI Alumni wants to also give thanks to MO. DOT for changing the street sign to St. Mary’s Infirmary Nurses Lane at 1536 Papin.
E. Rice, R.N. B.S., is Secretary of St. Mary’s Infirmary Alumni.