80 Years of Caring. One Remarkable Legacy.
In December 2026, WVU Medicine Thomas Memorial Hospital will proudly celebrate 80 years of serving our community. Since opening our doors on December 9, 1946, we've been honored to care for generations of patients and families across the Kanawha Valley.
As we approach this historic milestone, we invite you to join us in reflecting on our past, celebrating our people, and looking ahead to the future of healthcare.
A Legacy That Began in 1946
Thomas Memorial Hospital opened its doors with a simple mission: provide exceptional healthcare to the community. Eight decades later, that spirit of service continues to shape the care we provide every day.
A Legacy of Compassion, Progress and Partnership
Named in honor of World War II Marine hero, Sgt. Herbert J. Thomas Jr., whose extraordinary courage and sacrifice earned him the Congressional Medal of Honor, Thomas Memorial Hospital has proudly carried forward his legacy of service.
What began as a community hospital has grown into the southern regional hub for WVU Medicine. Through every chapter of our history, our commitment has remained the same: caring for our community, embracing progress, and building partnerships that help us provide exceptional healthcare for generations to come.
Thomas Memorial Hospital: Through the Years
Looking Toward the Future
While we prepare to celebrate 80 years of excellence this December, our focus remains firmly on tomorrow by continuing to provide compassionate, innovative healthcare for the communities we proudly serve.
Anniversary Events
Save the dates! Join us as we celebrate 80 years of caring with special events throughout December. Additional details will be announced as the celebration approaches.
Stay tuned for additional event details and more ways to celebrate with us throughout our anniversary month.
Dec 5: Breakfast with Santa
WVU Medicine Golisano Children's Hospital Breakfast with Santa
December 5, 2026
Employees and community members are invited to celebrate the holiday season with this cherished tradition featuring festive fun for children and families. Following the event, stop by the South Charleston Christmas Parade and see our float!
Dec 7 & 10: Blood Drive
80 for 80 Community Blood Drive
December 7, 2026: WVU Medicine Thomas Orthopedic Hospital
December 10, 2026: WVU Medicine Thomas Memorial Hospital
Help us collect 80 units of blood in honor of WVU Medicine Thomas Memorial Hospital's 80th Anniversary and make a lifesaving difference in our community.
Dec 9: Anniversary Celebration
WVU Medicine Thomas Memorial Hospital 80th Anniversary Celebration
December 9, 2026
Commemorate this historic milestone with a special anniversary celebration on the Pavilion Lawn. Employees, media, and invited guests will gather to honor our legacy, recognize the people who have shaped our history, and enjoy the premiere of our commemorative history video.
Share Your Story!
Has Thomas Memorial Hospital been part of your family's story? Whether you were born here, worked here, volunteered here, or received care here, we'd love to hear your memories as we prepare for our anniversary celebration.