VICKERS: Hotel Dieu was God’s hospital in Miramichi

Facility combined faith, compassion, and dedication to serving local health needs

In his latest History at a Glance column, John Vickers highlights the legacy of the Hotel Dieu Hospital, in the former town of Chatham. (NB ARCHIVES PHOTO)

The Hotel Dieu Hospital in the former town of Chatham holds a significant place in New Brunswick’s healthcare history.

Established by the Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception, this institution provided nearly a century of service to the community, evolving through four distinct buildings before closing in 2000. The history of these buildings reflects the dedication of the Sisters and the hospital's lasting impact on the region's medical development and community care.

The journey began in 1869, when the Sisters of Charity arrived in Chatham after a difficult voyage aboard the steamer Secret. They were motivated by their mission to serve the growing needs of a community that lacked organized healthcare.

Their first task was to transform a small, modest structure measuring 25 feet by 36 feet into the first Hotel Dieu Hospital. This building had previously served as a presbytery and later as the Episcopal Residence of Bishop James Rogers. the first bishop of the newly established Diocese of Chatham in 1860.

The first Hotel Dieu Hospital. (NB ARCHIVES PHOTO)

Though it was far from ideal, the Sisters turned it into a functioning hospital, caring for more than 100 inpatients and thousands of outpatients in just 18 months. Despite the challenges of frigid winters, scarce food, and limited resources, they persevered, relying on the support of local benefactors. The building later served as a civic hospital during a diphtheria epidemic in 1903 and became St. Joseph’s Preparatory School for boys. In 1931, it was moved and preserved as a museum.

As the population grew, the Sisters recognized the need for a larger facility. In 1870, under the direction of Bishop Rogers, they established the second Hotel Dieu, a wing attached to the existing church. This building allowed the Sisters to expand their services and offer better care to the community. However, its lifespan was tragically short. In 1878, the building was destroyed by fire, but in its brief existence, it solidified the Sisters' commitment to providing healthcare to Chatham. The loss only fuelled their determination to continue their mission despite the setbacks they faced.