Although documents, architectural drawings and photos of nurses in the early years of MGH are scarce, there is evidence that nurses have been essential since MGH admitted its first patient in 1821.

“We offer to you then . . . kind nurses, whose only duty and occupation it is to watch and provide for the sick, proper and nourishing food, rest and tranquility . . . “ 

From an Address to the Trustees of the Massachusetts General Hospital
by Rufus Wyman. January 10, 1822

“In 1862, the second year of our Civil War, I felt that I ought in some way to take part in that great struggle, and about decided to offer my services as an army nurse, but my friends persuaded me to abandon that idea, and remain at home. I, accordingly, gave up my army plans and accepted a position as assistant nurse in the Massachusetts General Hospital, at a salary of $7.50 per month.”

Miss Sturtevant, 1862: Assistant nurse. Two months later: Appointed to be in charge of two wards. 1869: Appointed to the position of Matron which she held until 1894.

“My first introduction to a hospital ward . . . I was ushered into a large bright airy room, the pretty white-curtained beds, with their strip of bright carpet beside each bed, and in almost every window pretty flowing plants gave the room a most cheerful and homelike appearance.  And yet as I soon learned and saw, there was suffering in almost every form within those four walls.” 

Miss Sturtevant, MGH Nurse 1862-1894