Edward Hines, Jr., Veterans Administration Hospital, Veterans hospital historic district in Hines, United States.
The Edward Hines Jr. Veterans Administration Hospital is an extensive medical complex in Hines spanning 174 acres with Colonial Revival-style buildings throughout its campus. The main infirmary with its distinctive long building forms the centerpiece, surrounded by additional specialized facilities for various medical services.
Construction began in 1918 on the grounds of a former racetrack, and Congress authorized its conversion to a veterans hospital in 1920. This transformation directly addressed the medical needs of World War I veterans returning home.
The facility serves as a focal point for the local community and remains deeply connected to its identity as a place dedicated to honoring military service. Visitors notice how the campus functions as both a working healthcare provider and a living memorial to those who served.
The main building and expansive campus grounds can be explored, featuring areas devoted to rehabilitation, mental health, and medical training. Visitors should allow time to navigate the grounds and remember that portions function as an active medical center.
The main building was designed with specific architectural features for tuberculosis treatment, including expansive windows and ventilation systems that maximize natural light and air circulation. These design choices reflect how early 20th century medical architecture sought to heal through environmental design.
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