The Henry Ford Hospital baseball team was founded in the 1920's to provide physical exercise for the staff physicians. Some of the early players included Drs. Frank J. Sladen, John K. Ormond, Frank Menaugh, F. Janney Smith, Wendell T. Garretson, William C. Montgomery, John Mateer and Robert Durham. The games were held at Belle Isle Park in Detroit and were a highlight for both the staff and their families.
Another early activity promoting exercise was in association with Henry Ford's 'Huron Mountain Club' near Marquette, Michigan. The resort was staffed by the hospital physicians, c.1928-1950, as a means of introducing the elite clientele to the work of Henry Ford Hospital. The staff reported back to Dr. Frank J. Sladen on their medical work, which included care for gastrointestinal disorders, fevers, cardiology problems and fractures. Henry and Clara Ford would personally request key physicians to treat their friends and family. In return the physicians and their families were provided a rigorous vacation of hiking, fishing and camping in the Michigan outdoors.
by: Melanie Bazil, Senior Archivist
Henry Ford Health System today has a Cricket Team and continues to promote the health and well-being of its employees.
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