From the Conrad R. Lam Archives

In 1925, the Henry Ford Hospital School of Nursing and Hygiene matriculated the first class of ninety students. After World War I, there was a nursing shortage, which prompted the Ford family and Dr. Frank Sladen to develop the program. The school, founded by Clara Ford, became an important component to the medical education at the hospital. The goal was to provide service to the community in the preservation and improvement of public health. Women came from the United States, Canada and Europe to attend the prestigious school, which had rotations in medicine, surgery, obstetrics, pediatrics, neurology, psychology and the dispensary.

Clara Ford also felt that the school should have a luxurious environment and offer cultural activities in theatre, modern dance and music. In addition to the regulation starched white uniforms and spotless shoes, the students were expected to abide by the no smoking rule or face the administrative consequences. The hospital grounds became their home for three years and many felt comfortable to express their individuality. Elegant teas with the Ford family were a highlight, Jesse Bonstelle assisted theatrical classes and Mrs. Lovett instructed the women in ballroom dancing.

The school atmosphere changed in the early 1970's and many students were commuting to the campus, often with jobs and family obligations. The curriculum was changed to a two year program and affiliation with the University of Dearborn was established. In 1996, the school was closed and the last class graduated after seventy-one years of service. – Melanie Bazil, Senior Archivist

Photo top: Nursing students Mildred McQueen and Audrey Horn outside the Clara Ford building c.1930.

Photo bottom: HFH School of Nursing dancers c.1927.