Mary Lanning Healthcare Marks 111 Years of Service

Delivering healthy babies has been a part of the MLH tradition nearly since the doors opened. In honor of the 111th anniversary of Mary Lanning Healthcare, all babies born on January 21 will receive a custom onesie and special certificate.

The Alice T. Lanning Maternity Wing was built in 1926, reflecting the growth of in-hospital births. Today, the MLH Family Care Center sees nearly 1,000 births per year.

“Honoring babies born on our anniversary signifies MLH’s long-standing tradition of caring for families in south central Nebraska,” said Dave Zechman, Interim CEO. “It is a great way to highlight the wonderful service provided on our Family Care Center, along with our history.” 

Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital was founded by William G. and Alice T. Lanning in memory of their college-age daughter, Mary. Mary became ill on her way home from college. Because there was no hospital care in Hastings, she passed away due to complications of her illness. Five years after her death, the hospital was opened to memorialize Mary’s goal of service to others. 

Over the years, many building projects, changes and additions to services have taken place. Today, Mary Lanning Healthcare, a non-profit, independent organization, stands as a testament to the Lanning family’s dedication to providing healthcare to the people of the region.

“The best thing MLH offers to the community is a staff of engaged employees who care for our patients as if they were members of their own families,” Zechman said. “We want to continue to provide the services they need in a safe and caring environment.”

For more information on MLH history, please see www.marylanning.org/about-us/history/