During the late 1890s, a dozen or more women in Newark saw the need for a hospital. Their vision was a bit difficult since these women were in possession of neither property nor money. Soon, nine beds were donated, along with food, bedding and other supplies, and Newark residents pitched in with donations of 50 cents to $50 each. On December 20, 1898, the Newark Hospital Association was incorporated as a not-for-profit organization. The Association opened the area’s first hospital in a nine-room house at 154 North Third Street.

In 1914, the hospital was moved to a newer and more modern structure at the corner of Buena Vista Avenue and Everett Avenue and named Newark City Hospital.

In 1966, 81 patients were moved into the innovative and technologically advanced health care facility we know today as Licking Memorial Hospital.

In 1987, the Development Council was formed to support the Licking Memorial Health Foundation. The Foundation is the fundraising and resource development organization for Licking Memorial Health Systems.

In 1995, the Licking Memorial Health Professionals Corporation was formed. Today, there are 85-plus physicians in various practices. Physician offices are located throughout Licking County, including Granville, Hanover, Heath, Hebron, Johnstown, Newark, Pataskala and Utica.

Today, the LMHS staff consists of approximately 1,500 employees working in many areas. Physicians, nurses, pharmacists, respiratory therapists, cooks, housekeepers, accountants, engineers, computer specialists, laboratory technicians, administrators and many others work hard together to provide the best care for patients and visitors. In 2008, Licking Memorial Hospital celebrates its 110th anniversary.