By Admin 
Introduction
The Yocom Hospital in Chariton, Iowa, carries a deep historical legacy rooted in community care, architectural significance, and local medical advancements. Built in the early 20th century, this facility played a vital role in the development of healthcare services in Lucas County. Known for its beautiful design and commitment to patient care, the hospital’s story is closely linked to the Yocom family and the progress of medical infrastructure in small-town America.
Foundation of Yocom Hospital
Yocom Hospital was established in 1924 by Dr. Albert L. Yocom Sr. and his son Dr. Albert L. Yocom Jr., both respected physicians in Chariton. Their vision was to create a modern hospital that served both city residents and rural patients in southern Iowa. At a time when small towns often lacked quality medical facilities, this hospital became a beacon of hope and innovation.
The hospital was strategically located at the corner of Braden Avenue and North 8th Street, just one block from the Chariton town square. Its location allowed easy access for ambulances, doctors, and patients alike.
Architectural Design and Style
The building’s design was crafted by William L. Perkins, a notable Iowa architect who had moved to Chariton in 1917. Perkins designed many iconic structures in the town, such as the Chariton Masonic Temple, City Hall, Hotel Charitone, and the Chariton Fire Station.
For Yocom Hospital, he created a brick building with elegant lines and symmetry typical of 1920s American institutional architecture. It had a welcoming appearance while maintaining the clinical standards needed for a hospital. The surrounding land was beautifully landscaped with green lawns and benches, creating a peaceful, park-like setting that supported the healing process.
Services and Staff
From its inception, Yocom Hospital offered a wide range of medical services. The facility included patient wards, a surgical suite, and emergency care rooms. The hospital was equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment for its time and was recognized for its cleanliness and professionalism.
Along with the Yocom family, several nurses and doctors contributed to the hospital’s day-to-day functions. A significant addition to the team came in 1945, after World War II, when Dr. Dean Curtis joined the hospital. His medical expertise helped further improve patient outcomes and expanded the hospital’s capabilities.
Leadership and Family Involvement
Yocom Hospital remained a family-run operation for decades. Jennie Yocom, wife of Dr. Albert Yocom Jr., played an essential role in managing hospital administration. She was deeply respected for her dedication, organizational skills, and compassion for both staff and patients.
The hospital flourished under this leadership trio until the late 1960s. However, a series of unfortunate events led to a turning point:
- Dr. Dean Curtis passed away in September 1967.
- Jennie Yocom died in December 1967.
- Dr. Albert Yocom Jr. passed away in August 1968.
Their deaths marked the end of an era for Yocom Hospital.
Competition and Public Healthcare Shift
By 1961, Chariton and Lucas County had begun work on a new publicly owned hospital — the Lucas County Memorial Hospital. This modern, county-funded facility was better equipped to serve the growing population and meet updated healthcare standards.
Although the new hospital was operational, Yocom Hospital continued to function for a few more years, serving as a backup facility and later housing administrative functions for the local school district. The new hospital eventually replaced Yocom as the primary medical center for the region.
Demolition and Legacy
After its closure as a medical institution, the Yocom Hospital building stood for several years, serving other civic purposes. But over time, the building deteriorated. It was eventually demolished, and in its place now stands Constitution Park — a public green space dedicated to preserving the memory of the original structure.
While the building itself is no longer standing, its impact on the Chariton community remains strong. It is remembered not just as a hospital, but as a community institution that served generations with care, dignity, and compassion.
Yocom Park: A Tribute to the Family
In honor of the Yocom family’s service and dedication to Chariton’s healthcare system, the city established Yocom Park, located just a block east of the hospital’s original location. The park includes green open space, playground equipment, and memorial markers recognizing the family’s role in local medical history.
It serves as a peaceful reminder of what the Yocom family built — not just in bricks and mortar, but in the trust, health, and history of a community.
Timeline Summary
Here’s a brief timeline to recap the major milestones in the history of Yocom Hospital:
- 1924 – Hospital established by Dr. A.L. Yocom Sr. and Jr.
- 1945 – Dr. Dean Curtis joins the hospital team.
- 1961 – Lucas County Memorial Hospital opens.
- 1967–68 – Loss of hospital leadership with the passing of Dr. Curtis, Jennie Yocom, and Dr. Yocom Jr.
- Post-1970s – Yocom Hospital closes and transitions to other civic uses.
- Demolition Date Unknown – The hospital is torn down and replaced with Constitution Park.
- Today – Yocom Park honors the family’s legacy in Chariton, Iowa.
Final Thoughts
The Yocom Hospital history of building Chariton Iowa tells a story of vision, dedication, and community spirit. For more than four decades, the Yocom family’s efforts helped save lives, improve medical access, and shape the city’s identity.
Although the original building no longer stands, its architectural and healthcare contributions are preserved in local memory, public parks, and historical records. The legacy of Yocom Hospital is not just about a physical structure—it is about the deep relationship between a family of healers and the community they served with pride.