January 11, 2008

Gearing up for the MGH bicentennial

Since the signing of the charter (below) officially establishing the Massachusetts General Hospital by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Feb. 25, 1811, to the present day, the MGH has flourished along with the nation. From the hospital's first patient in 1821 to the recent groundbreaking developments in early cancer detection, the MGH's history comprises a rich legacy of milestones and advances.

To officially mark and celebrate the MGH's bicentennial, an exciting and wide-ranging yearlong program of special events, projects and activities are being planned for the year 2011. MGHers and visitors can look forward to learning more about the hospital's 200th anniversary and its deep history throughout the bicentennial year, which will kick off Jan. 1, 2011.

The planning process has been embraced by MGH President Peter L. Slavin, MD, and MGPO Chairman and Chief Executive Officer David F. Torchiana, MD, both of whom will co-chair "MGH 2011." A bicentennial steering committee and various honorary and working committees are also in formation.

One major project to anticipate in 2011 is the publication of two books, which the hospital has commissioned. The first is a comprehensive history of the hospital and the second book will bring the people and culture of the MGH to life through anecdotal stories, personal accounts and photos.

As the bicentennial approaches, more updates about events and activities will be made available in upcoming issues of MGH Hotline. For questions about the
bicentennial anniversary, send an e-mail to MGH2011@partners.org or Lynn Dale, director of Bicentennial Planning, Programming and Special Events, at ldale@partners.org.