Marquette History

UP Health System – Marquette carries forward a long tradition of health care service in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, rooted in more than 125 years of commitment to the region’s well-being.

Marquette’s reputation for healing dates back to the mid-1800s, when the area became known for its “healthful air” that drew patients with asthma, tuberculosis and hay fever. In those early days, hospitals were often established in private homes by concerned citizens.

Marquette General Hospital traces its origins to the founding of Marquette City Hospital in July 1896 by Drs. Northrop, Foster, Youngquist, Harkin and Hornbogen. The original 12-bed facility quickly outgrew its space and relocated multiple times to meet the needs of the growing community. By 1915, with help from community donors and the Longyear family, the newly built St. Luke’s Hospital opened with a capacity of 50 to 60 beds and modern amenities for the time.

Throughout the 20th century, the hospital continued to expand. Additions such as the Northern Michigan Children’s Clinic in 1931, the James Couzens Memorial Building in 1938, and several patient towers throughout the decades reflected the region’s growing demand for health services. Specialty departments, a nursing school and key advancements like Intensive and Coronary Care Units were introduced to enhance the quality of care.

In 1973, St. Luke’s merged with St. Mary’s Hospital to become Marquette General Hospital, unifying services and streamlining care delivery for the region. Major expansions in the 1980s and 1990s brought updated surgical suites, a Family Birthing Center and specialty services including cardiac care, behavioral health and neuroscience.

To continue providing advanced, patient-centered care, a new, state-of-the-art hospital facility was built and opened in 2019. Located just west of downtown Marquette, the modern UP Health System – Marquette campus includes a 222-bed hospital and adjoining medical office building, with specialized centers for heart and vascular care, cancer care, neurology, orthopedics and trauma services. Designed with efficiency, healing and sustainability in mind, the new facility reflects a bold vision for rural health care delivery and was recognized by the American Institute of Architects for excellence in health care architecture.

Today, UP Health System – Marquette remains the regional referral center for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. As part of a network committed to improving rural health, the hospital serves a broad geographic area, offering leading-edge technology, specialty care and a dedicated team of providers who call the U.P. home. 

Surrounded by Marquette’s natural beauty—where hiking, skiing, fishing and outdoor recreation are part of daily life, the hospital proudly continues its mission to provide exceptional care close to home, with a focus on quality, innovation and community.