At the end of the 19th century, Manitowoc was a bustling maritime town without a hospital. Mother Alexia Fullmer of the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity responded to the request of local clergy and community leaders to start a hospital to care for the needs of the growing community. But there was a problem - there were no resources to build it. The Sisters rallied the town to raise money and enthusiasm for the new hospital.

On September 28, 1899, Holy Family Hospital opened its doors for the first time, called the most modern hospital in the country, with unique features like an elevator. The Sisters cleaned, cooked and grew vegetables while caring for a growing body of patients. At the time, people across the nation were afraid to come to hospitals out of fear of the unknown. The Christian compassion, hospitality and kindness of the Sisters quickly engaged the town and changed this perception. The hospital flourished.

Today, HFM health network is respected as one of the most innovative & caring healthcare networks in the country.