Welcome

This website has been created in remembrance of Elizabeth General Medical Center, the first hospital created in Elizabeth in May, 1879, and one of the first in New Jersey. We look forward to May, 2029 at which time it will mark the 150th Anniversary of the establishment of Elizabeth General Hospital and Dispensary's incorporation.

From Humble Beginnings

From humble beginnings as a Free Dispensary storefront clinic* that was open two days a week, to a larger home on Jaques St. referred to at the time as "Jaques Folly," to a city-block complex bordering E. Jersey St. on the South side, Reid St. on the West side, Lafayette St. on the North side and Jaques St. on the East side, Elizabeth General grew in size and scope to become one of the leading healthcare providers in New Jersey with a stellar national reputation. Over time, many satellite locations were used to extend the hospital's service area, including the assets of Alexian Brothers Hospital that were also added to EGMC. (* The Free Dispensary was opened in April of 1877 and was located on W. Jersey St., three doors from Broad St. The hospital's incorporation didn't happen until May 9, 1879.)

People from near and far came to "the General" for care in times of need. Every birth was celebrated as a joyful gift from God, and every passing was treated in a respectful and solemn manner. The gamut of human emotions were on display in an enormous undertaking where legions of medical professionals stood ready to fix, to heal, to provide therapy, to provide counseling and help manage the expectations that the people had for their prestigious hospital.

This website covers three main areas: people, places and things. Many of the pages of this site link to other sections like a tapestry, since the people featured worked and served in places and used things to get the job done. The gallery is a section where we have placed a number of other photos, videos and documents that are part of the massive collection of images, documents and artifacts.

NJHA Formation
In 1918, with the world beginning its recovery from World War I and confronting a global influenza pandemic, leaders of seven New Jersey hospitals gathered in Newark to discuss the challenges and changes facing hospitals. The New Jersey Hospital Association was the result of the leadership and foresight of the following institutions: Elizabeth General Hospital, Newark City Hospital, Muhlenberg Hospital, Morristown Memorial Hospital, Paterson General Hospital, Christ Hospital and Hudson County Tuberculosis Hospital, and Sanitarium.

This information was last reviewed or updated on January 5, 2026. Adjustments may be made to this page as new information is added, making this a continual work in progress.