In 1926, Bates County’s first hospital opened in a two-story home at 107 S. Havana Street in Butler, Missouri. The home was rented by Lena Stayton, who recognized the need for a community hospital. Five upstairs rooms were furnished for patients, and local physicians equipped an operating room.
The first patient was admitted to Bates County’s first community hospital on June 17, 1926.
Hospital care in Bates County continued through several facilities and generations of caregivers before Bates County Memorial Hospital opened in 1960.
The second location, located at Maple and College Streets, was named Butler Memorial Hospital. BCMH is still referred to as “Butler Memorial” by some residents.
Today, BCMH is proud to continue that tradition through emergency care, surgery, imaging, cancer care, specialty clinics, primary care, and many other services, all serving the same mission: caring for our neighbors.
This story isn’t about a hospital building. It’s the story of a rural community that has maintained local healthcare access for a full century. In 2026, when many rural communities have lost hospital services entirely, that accomplishment is more meaningful than ever.
A 100-Year Timeline of Healthcare in Bates County, Missouri
1926: Bates County’s first community hospital opened at 107 S. Havana Street in Butler.
1932: The City of Butler purchased property at Maple and College Streets. The facility became known as Butler Memorial Hospital, named in honor of Mrs. S.C. Stayton’s late husband.
1943: The City of Butler purchased the hospital building for $20,000. Approximately 1,400 patients were admitted annually, with up to 70% living outside the city limits.
1957: The Bates County Court appointed five hospital trustees to form a board for a new hospital. Voters approved a $350,000 county bond issue to build a new facility on the site where BCMH stands today.
1960: Bates County Memorial Hospital officially opened on September 16, 1960, with 65 employees.
1960-Present: Bates County Memorial Hospital continues the tradition of local healthcare established in 1926.
