People: Eliza Gracie Halsey

Eliza Gracie (King) Halsey (1810-1883) was a civic-minded woman who made a unique contribution to the establishment of the original Elizabeth General Hospital and Dispensary. She wrote a letter that was published in the Elizabeth Daily Journal that was addressed to the children of Elizabeth, NJ and urged them to join the cause of establishing a "Daisy Bed" at the hospital that would be dedicated to the care of Elizabeth's children. To encourage the children, the newspaper would publish the small donations made by the children and how it contributed to the effort that grew into what became known as "the Daisy Ward."

The Daisy Ward was celebrated by the community as an example of people banding together for a common cause, particularly the inclusion of children in a larger civic effort. Mrs. Halsey's family was also involved in the overall development of the hospital, and of the city of Elizabeth. A plaque acknowledging her efforts hung on the wall of the ward, and will live in the minds and hearts of the people who remember her valiant efforts.

Dedication to God and country was a strong trait in her family. She is a descendant of Rufus King, Her husband, Rev. Charles Henry Halsey, was a prominent minister. Her grandson, Admiral William F. Halsey, Jr., rose to the rank of five-star Admiral in the US Navy, one of only four to achieve this distinction. Admiral Halsey had an important role during World War 2. She died on August 7, 1883 and is buried in Jamaica, Queens (New York) in the Grace Episcopal Church yard. For more information on her family history please visit the King Manor Museum website.

This information was last reviewed or updated on December 24, 2025. Adjustments may be made to this page as new information is added, making this a continual work in progress