1846
The institution first began as a soup kitchen on John Street, under the auspices of the Ladies’ Benevolent Society. This group of Hamilton women banded together to help the needy in cold winter months.
1848
The Ladies’ Benevolent Society established the “Destitute School”, for children of the poor. This was following an epidemic of cholera in Hamilton, a great need for a home for orphan children arose.
1853
The Ladies’ Benevolent Society purchased two acres of land on Charlton Street, where they erected the “Hamilton Orphan Asylum.”
1875
The Ladies’ Benevolent Society purchased two acres of land on Charlton Street, where they erected the “Hamilton Orphan Asylum”
1877
A bequest of $4,000 donated by Mrs. Edward Jackson allowed the organization to focus on a greater need in the community, providing care for aged women. Mrs. Jackson is considered to be the Founder of our Manor.
1948
The name of the facility was changed to “The Aged Women’s Home of Hamilton”. Extensive alterations to the building continued, until the decision was reached to build a new facility. The site chosen is the current location on Sanatorium Road, a lot offered to the Trustees by the Hamilton Health Association on the property of the Mountain Sanatorium.
1958 (June)
The corner stone was laid for the former building.
1959
The Garden Club of Hamilton presented and erected a pair of beautiful wrought iron gates at the entrance to the property. They were a gift from “Idlewyld”, the estate of the late Col. Gordon and Mrs. Henderson.
1964
In recognition of the gift, the name Idlewyld was added to The Aged Women’s Home.
2002 (May)
The current 192-bed facility started construction, with the award of 96 new beds from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.
2004 (May)
Construction was completed and the Residents were able to move into the new facility. Admissions for male residents was initiated with the opening of the new building.
2018 (June)
Idlewyld Manor Board of Directors integrated with the Board of Directors from Thrive Group, an organization that worked closely with the Manor for several years providing back office services. To be sustainable, the entire health system must evolve, adapt and join together, to better serve the people in the community, now and into the future. It was recognized that the availability of appropriate, cost-effective support service is the key to enhancing the quality of life for those that need ongoing assistance with the activities of daily living. Idlewyld Manor took action to remain a strong voice, a strong presence and continues to look for the best way of doing business as part of Thrive Group.
