“Home for the aged and infirmed”
November 30, 1894
Sister Annette starts a “home for the aged and infirmed” at 710 Martin Street in St. Paul, MN. She was born in Kentucky in 1840, and in 1856 she left home to enroll at the Monticello Female Seminary in Godfrey, Illinois. Fifteen years later, Sister Annette came to Minnesota to teach in Faribault. In 1874, Bishop Whipple consecrated her as a sister for the Episcopal Church. For further reading, see Dave Kenney’s book on the history of Episcopal Homes, called “At Home in the City.”
Two Residents
April 25, 1895
J. J. Hill Donation
March 28, 1896
J. J. Hill donated $100 that kept the Home open and operating. An excerpt from “At Home in the City” by Dave Kenney, details this donation. “In 1896, during its first few months on John Street, [the home’s] financial picture grew so dire that Bishop Gilbert told the matron, Harriet Godfrey, to close is doors and send the residents to the poorhouse. But as word of the home’s imminent demise spread, Reverend William C. Pope of the Church of the Good Shepherd in St. Paul intervened. He went to the city’s richest man, railroad magnate James J. Hill, and asked for help. Hill responded with a $100 check.” Photo is of Hill in 1902, via Photo MNopedia.
Church Home moves to 527 John St. in Saint Paul.
April 25, 1896
Episcopal Affiliation
March 28, 1897
Articles of Incorporation adopted as Home becomes part of the Episcopal diocese. Membership in this new corporation cost a 25-cent annual fee. With this, a board of trustees and a board of managers oversaw policy and financial decisions, and the home’s day-to-day operations, respectfully. Information from Dave Kenney’s “At Home in the City” book about the history of Episcopal Homes.
Church Home moves to 509 Lafayette Ave.
April 25, 1899
Church Home moves to Hoffman Ave.
April 25, 1901
Board members are asked to raise $5 for the coal bill.
April 25, 1901
A book party was held to establish a library for the Home.
April 25, 1901
State Fair Fundraiser
April 3, 1902
A State Fair fundraiser serving lunch earned $247 for the Home. Based on inflation for 2019, that $247 would be worth $7,259.26! Photo is from the 1902 Minnesota State Fair, courtesy of the Minnesota State Fair Archives.
230 Hoffman Avenue
November 25, 1902
The St. Paul Globe reported that the P. H. Kelly residence was “fitted up” to accommodate more inmates.
587 Fuller Avenue
March 29, 1905
The Church Home moves to 587 Fuller Avenue, sharing space with the Episcopal Deaconess Home. However, the home could only house 14 residents. The building was threatened to be condemned by city inspectors if everything wasn’t brought up to code. With a growing waitlist, something had to be done. Information from Dave Kenney’s “At Home in the City.”
September 22 designated as the Diocesan annual contribution date for the Home.
September 22, 1907
Board voted to remove all kerosene lanterns and stoves from the Home.
April 25, 1908
Sister Annette becomes Resident
March 29, 1909
In 1909, Sister Annette becomes a resident of the Church Home. In the same year, House rules included “inmates are strictly forbidden to make complaints.” Sister Annette was reprimanded for voicing concerns and speaking up regarding the Home’s state of affairs. In 1910, the suggestion was raised to change “inmates” to “residents” of the Home.
Schubert Club of St. Paul gave a musical to raise funds of $4.60.
April 25, 1909
Lindeke Mills donates sacks of flour to the Home.
April 25, 1909
Resident Mrs. Berry moves her piano from her room into the parlor.
April 25, 1911
The Sunshine Society sends cards, flowers, and curtains along with a donation of $4 in honor of “Annual Old Ladies Day.”
April 25, 1911
Neighbors deliver vegetables from their summer gardens for the women of the Home.
April 25, 1911
Chemical fire extinguishers were placed on all floors.
April 25, 1911
The Schubert Club begins providing concerts at the Home.
April 25, 1913
An entertainment program was sponsored by St. Clement’s and raised $51.35.
April 25, 1914
Sister Annette passes
February 16, 1915
Sister Annette dies at The Church Home and is praised for “years of service, undaunted courage and persistent hopefulness in all times of trial, and her large faith in the ultimate success of The Home.”
A new piano was purchased from Bowyer Piano Company and they agreed to tune the piano free of charge for five years.
April 25, 1915
St. John’s of Mankato donated a barrel of fruit.
April 26, 1917
The November annual reception was cancelled due to the flu epidemic.
April 26, 1918
Photo from St. Paul Pioneer Press, 1918.
The Matron, Mrs. Stephenson, received a salary increase to $40 per month with two months vacation!
April 26, 1918
$40,000 for Hinkle Mansion
March 29, 1920
The board voted to purchase the Hinkel Mansion at 1879 Feronia Avenue for $40,000. Residents are temporarily moved to 534 Ashland Avenue until the mansion is equipped and furnished. The same year electric lights will be installed. This etching was done in 1886 of the J. G. Hinkel Mansion.
Due to war, certain supplies were difficult to get, especially sugar.
April 26, 1920
St. Mark’s Church donated 100 pounds of sugar.
April 26, 1920
In the summer, St. John’s Church sent cars every Wednesday for rides for the residents.
April 26, 1921
Ascension Church of Stillwater donated fresh vegetables, fresh and canned fruit, and jellies.
April 26, 1921
Schubert Club Involvement
April 8, 1922
The second Thursday of each month featured musicals by the Philanthropic branch of the Schubert Club. Community churches rotated as hostess. Photo is of the Schubert Club, unknown year.
A fundraising movie at the Oxford Theater raised $168 from half of the price of each 25 cent ticket.
April 26, 1922
The Uptown Theater in St. Paul was once the Oxford Theater which opened in 1921. The name was changed to Uptown Theater in 1929. It has since been demolished. 1053 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105
The Sunday School Girl Choir of St. Mary’s Church sang several hymns at the home followed by serving cake and ice cream.
April 26, 1922
The Young Men’s Club
April 26, 1922
The Young Men’s Club from St. Mary’s Church refused to allow any organization of that church to outdo them in social activities. They went to the Home one evening and “…gave a very unique program, as only those young men can give. Our ladies had a wonderful time.”
Three telephones were installed to help eliminate so much running up the stairs.
April 26, 1923
“No cleaner no better place”
April 3, 1924
The State Inspector stated to the board there was no cleaner no better place in the city: “It is as good now as it was bad.” This was referring to the conditions of the Home when it had been on Fuller Street–which had had limitations and incidents. During this year in St. Paul, hundreds will die from a Smallpox epidemic.
Mrs. Louise Oehler working in the position of Matron secures a beautiful rug for the front hall from Luger Wholesale Store at a third off.
April 26, 1924
Mrs. Donaldson was requested to remove her revolver from her nightstand and put it in a locked trunk.
May 1, 1924
Regular worship services began by a variety of priests and ministers.
April 26, 1925
Reverend Frank Zoubek
April 3, 1926
The Reverend Frank Zoubek was nominated to be Chaplain of the Home where he would remain for 46 years. The photo is from 1947, which shows Rev. Zoubek giving communion.
A new Sagamore radio console was purchased and placed in the living room.
April 26, 1927
Mrs. Forepaugh donates 85 books to create a full library.
April 26, 1928
30 Residents
April 26, 1929
Eliza May
April 3, 1930
Eliza May is elected first female President of the Board. The photo of Eliza May is from 1880.
Women Leadership
April 3, 1930
Women take over the complete operation of the Home with five men to “assist” as an Advisory Board. Women officially took over in May, 1930, at the annual meeting. This photo is of the board from 1935.
Certificate of Amendment to original incorporation changed to “Home For Aged or Homeless Persons.” No longer women only.
April 26, 1930
Board develops memorial fund to assist residents with financial need.
April 26, 1934
474 Lynnhurst
April 3, 1935
Property at 474 Lynnhurst is purchased for $35,000.
Isabella T. Cooke
April 3, 1935
Isabella T. Cooke donates $50,000 to build an addition to the Home. Image is of the (later) Emily B. King Hall and the Isabella T. Cooke Hall.
West Point Academy donated $100 from the Army-Navy football game.
April 26, 1935
The J.R. VanDerlip Estate left an endowment to yield an income for the Home that would continue for decades.
April 26, 1935
Photo is from 1919, Lee Brothers Portrait Collection, Minnesota Historical Society.
The federal government granted exception from taxes to the Home.
April 26, 1935
Social Security Act provides old age assistance, so many residents now have a source of income.
April 26, 1935
Mrs. Louis Hill sponsored a lecture by Mrs. William Hibbard of Chicago on “The Hill Towns of France” raising $330.
April 26, 1936
The Como Park Flower Show sent cut flowers to the Home.
April 26, 1936
Photo is of the park’s flower gardens in 1905.
The Christmas program featured carols by the Schubert Club.
December 25, 1936
O’Leary Property
April 3, 1937
The Board votes to purchase the adjoining O’Leary property. The O’Leary house was remodeled and renamed after Mrs. Eliza May.
Emily King Hall dedication
April 3, 1939
The dedication included the presence of Judith Relf, great grandniece of Sister Annette.
54 Residents
April 26, 1940
Noted one of the “most beautiful” Schubert Club events– Miss Gould brought her choir pupils who did caroling throughout the Home for Christmas.
December 25, 1941
The Sister Annette portrait was unveiled on December 30, a gift given by Mrs. C. A. Fuller of Minneapolis, a lifelong friend of Sister Annette.
April 26, 1942
Stained glass windows for the chapel were put on hold until after the war due to shortage of lead.
April 26, 1942
The Board noted it was difficult finding nurses and to keep staff due to inflated salaries during the war.
April 26, 1942
Victory Garden
April 3, 1943
A victory garden was planted with all red, white, and blue flowers.
Mrs. Bremer invited the Board to a picnic at her home in Stillwater, but they could not accept due to no gas available.
April 26, 1943
Nurses were requested to work 56-hour work weeks due to shortage of personnel.
April 26, 1943
The Masonic Women held a Valentine party for the women and “trimmed little baskets were presented to each resident.”
April 26, 1944
The Home was hit by the flu epidemic.
April 26, 1944
Eisenmenger’s Market provided free chickens for Christmas.
December 25, 1944
Photo is from the Minnesota State Historical Society.
An appeal is made for “corporate memberships” at $3 per year. The appeal is for the construction of a building to serve as a Nursing Home.
April 26, 1945
For the first time since the war, residents were again going for auto rides.
April 26, 1947
Mrs. Eliza Leigh
April 3, 1949
Mrs. Eliza Leigh provided direction and funding to renovate the Chapel. Photo is of Eliza, from The Minneapolis Star, 5/4/1935.
Tuberculosis tests were added to the pre-entrance medical examinations.
April 26, 1950
The Board voted to purchase a television set for $305.
April 26, 1951
St. Paul Pioneer Press coverage
April 3, 1952
A 1952 St. Paul Pioneer Press article describes the Church Home: “Behind the hedge at the bend of brief Feronia Avenue stands a dynamo of human industry powered by some 70 silver-haired ladies in retirement. No one glaring at the sedate facade of the Church Home of Minnesota would suspect the hilarious year-round activity that goes on within its orderly, high-ceilinged rooms.”
70 Residents
April 26, 1952
Each Board member donates $1 to purchase a television antenna.
April 26, 1952
Purchased “a moving picture machine and project” at a cost of $367.
April 26, 1953
The Board considers a list of conscientious objectors recommended by L. E. Lilygren of the Selective Service System for the position of janitor.
April 26, 1953
James Falconer dies and leave a large gift for the Home of which Falconer Lounge is named after him.
April 26, 1954
A fan for every room purchased along with two fire gongs for basement and lounge.
April 26, 1957
The board turned down a large donation offered from a Milwaukee man who requested the Home only be open to Episcopalians.
April 26, 1959
63 Residents
April 26, 1962
Groundbreaking
April 3, 1963
Groundbreaking for a new Church Home building began with architect George Entrikin’s design aligned with the Board’s wishes for a place with “home-like characteristics.” To give space for this new building, King Hall (the original home of 1879 Feronia Ave.) was razed along with May Hall. On this new space, a two-story brick building was made. In 1965, a dedication ceremony was held. Information supplemented from Dave Kenney’s “At Home in the City.”
The Chapel is vacated for construction. Chaplain Zoubek alternates services between the sunroom and the lounge.
April 26, 1964
The St. Paul Library begins services to the Church Home.
April 26, 1964
Leigh Chapel begins services on Thanksgiving Day.
April 26, 1964
101 Residents
April 26, 1965
Isabella House Donation
April 3, 1966
Mrs. Isabella House provides over $500,000 in her will to the Church home.
The Activities Director placed an “ailment jar” in the dining room. Residents spending time discussing ailments were to put a dime in the the jar.
April 26, 1968
The Corps of Engineers designated the Home as a “fallout shelter” and requested permission to store 88 drums of water, biscuits, and carbohydrates in the crawlway under the building.
April 26, 1968
Name Change
April 3, 1970
The Church Home officially changes its name to The Episcopal Church Home of Minnesota.
93 Residents
April 26, 1970
Rev. Zoubek celebrates his 1,000th service at the Home.
April 3, 1971
The first Occupational Therapist is employed to expand the activities program to meet social, recreational, and physical needs of all residents.
April 26, 1973
Katy Relf Carlsen
April 3, 1976
Great great grandniece of founder Sister Annette, Katy Relf Carlsen, joins the board. This photo is from 1994, when Katy served on the planning committee for the 100th anniversary of Episcopal Church Homes in 1994.
House Committee recommends to go forth with installation of air conditioning for the kitchen, chapel, and first floor of May Hall at a cost of $30,000.
April 26, 1976
484 E. Lynnhurst
April 3, 1977
Property purchased at 484 E. Lynnhurst for $69,900.
First marriage of residents in ECH history– Rev. Carter Butts and Lillian Winterer.
April 26, 1977
Mrs. Fitzpatrick of the Church Home Auxiliary donated a TV antenna worth $5,752 and made purchases for kitchen and dining room items with trading stamps.
April 26, 1978
WCCO-TV films a communion service in Leigh Chapel celebrated by Bishop Philip McNair to be presented on Easter Sunday.
April 26, 1979
498 Lynnhurst
April 3, 1980
House purchased at 498 Lynnhurst for $66,500.
Becketwood Planning
April 3, 1982
Planning for Becketwood Cooperative begins with a land purchase from Sheltering Arms in Minneapolis for $950,000.
ECH Foundation
April 3, 1982
The ECH Foundation is set up and bylaws prepared.
First Owners move into Becketwood Cooperative
April 3, 1986
A live-in pet, Trixie the Golden Retriever, moved into the Home
June 26, 1987
Photo is of Trixie and Rev. Dick Smith from 1988.
Scholarships
April 3, 1990
Scholarship funds become available for staff to continue education.
First Iris Park Commons Residents
April 5, 1992
ECH Foundation Chair John Relf, descendant of founder Sister Annette Relf, provides an extensive report on plans for a fundraising campaign for the 100th anniversary.
April 29, 1992
100 Years!
April 3, 1994
Episcopal Homes celebrates 100 years!
Rev. Irma Wyman Dresses Up
April 3, 1994
Reverend Irma Wyman dresses up as Sister Annette to give the homily in the Chapel. Photo is of Jenny Rice (left) and Irma (right).
Survey of residents shows 29% are Episcopalians
April 29, 1994
A new computer network system was installed at the cost of $80,000.
April 29, 1996
A new chapel organ was donated by Mrs. Margaret Schroeder.
April 29, 1997
New security system is installed for $8,915.
April 29, 1997
Marvin Plakut
April 3, 1999
Marvin Plakut becomes the new CEO and remains so today.
Sister Annette Relf Legacy Society
April 8, 1999
The Sister Annette Relf Legacy Society is announced to honor those who bequeath gifts through their will or estate for Episcopal Homes.
Installation of a new telephone/communication system at a cost of $82,000.
April 29, 1999
Purchased old Midway Ford (Slawik) property for $980,000
April 29, 1999
HUD Dollars
April 8, 2000
Applied for HUD dollars and received 4.1 million dollars to be used to build subsidized housing units for seniors.
Rebrand
April 8, 2001
Episcopal Homes unites and rebrands as Episcopal Homes of Minnesota.
Seabury Groundbreaking
April 8, 2001
Groundbreaking for Seabury addition begins.
Episcopal Homes receives the 2002 Business of the Year Award from the Midway Chamber of Commerce for business success, innovation, leadership in the business community and commitment to the Midway area of St. Paul.
April 29, 2002
Stone soup nights began during the winter where residents got together to chop, slice, dice and simmer savory kettles of “stone soup” to share.
April 29, 2003
Planting of our “Prairie Restoration Project” was initiated by residents Verna Beaver and Lorraine Grunke and the wedding of residents Mark Maykoski and Anita Lake.
April 29, 2003
Six million dollar capital campaign to expand senior housing to include affordable housing options.
April 29, 2004
Cornelia House
April 8, 2005
The first residents move into Cornelia House, a new 47-unit independent senior housing facility. Cornelia House is named after Cornelia Whipple, the wife of Minnesota’s first Episcopal Bishop, Henry Whipple.
Received the Walter & Lydia Deubener Award from the St. Paul Chamber of Commerce for outstanding achievement in growth, excellence, risk, diversity and innovation.
April 29, 2006
Photo of Jean Probst , Marvin and Fran with 2006 Deubener award.
Metropolitan Council recognizes Episcopal Church Home as a project that “encompasses a continuum of senior housing options with a sense of community” as part of a Transit-Oriented Designed space that allows area seniors to stay in their community.
April 29, 2006
Carty Heights Opens
April 8, 2007
Named after Father Denzil Carty, Carty Heights opened with another HUD grant, serving low-income seniors. This new location is in Ward 1 of St. Paul, a different setting than Episcopal Homes’ main campus.
Episcopal Homes’ Creative Ventures programming designed to engage and enrich lives through a range of creative outlets such as professionally-led pottery and painting courses to educational series and theater outings begins.
April 29, 2009
King’s Crossing
April 8, 2011
King’s Crossing opens in Frogtown to the praise of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. It’s recognized as a model for innovative community planning and neighborhood revitalization.
Purchased site of Porky’s Drive-In restaurant
April 29, 2011
Community Impact Award
April 3, 2012
Episcopal Homes is awarded the 2012 Community Impact Award for Kings Crossing by the Aging Services of Minnesota.
Carter Family Concert
April 8, 2012
Melvin Carter Sr, a resident at Episcopal Homes, hosts a spirit-filled jazz and gospel concert performed by three generations of his family, including current St. Paul Mayor, Melvin Carter III.
Campus expansion includes turning Porky’s restaurant property into 170 unit building.
April 29, 2012
Walter Otto, a lifetime member of Gethsemane Episcopal church and church organist, leaves ECH a gift of $6,000,000.
April 29, 2012
Episcopal Home residents donate more than 400 holiday gifts and $2,000 for children served at the Hallie Q. Brown center.
April 29, 2013
Photo is from an issue of At Home from Spring 2011, when the Episcopal Homes community distributed toys for children of food shelf recipients.
Midway Pointe houses 50 additional units of HUD affordable housing.
April 29, 2013
ECH becomes the first nursing home in Minnesota to implement the Green House model of skilled nursing care.
April 29, 2015
Best Nursing Home Award
April 8, 2019
U.S. News & World Report awards Episcopal Church Homes and the Gardens building with a Best Nursing Home Award.
1,400 Residents
April 29, 2019