Huron County View

Group looking to buy, refurbish old hospital in Bad Axe




A group called Friends of Hubbard Memorial Hospital is looking to purchase and renovate the historic structure in Bad Axe. (Photo by Seth Stapleton)

A group called Friends of Hubbard Memorial Hospital is looking to purchase and renovate the historic structure in Bad Axe. (Photo by Seth Stapleton)

BAD AXE – Anyone interested in saving a historical landmark in the area need look no further than an effort put together by a local non-profit group.

Friends of Hubbard Memorial Hospital is currently seeking the public’s help to raise funds for the purchase of the former hospital, located on the corner of Irwin and Whitelam streets in Bad Axe.

The plan: To purchase the property, then begin a renovation process that will convert the three-level property into a retirement community, rental units, and overnight lodging.

According to lead organizer Ken Guza, the group has set a fundraising goal of $75,000 for the initial purchase of the property.

“Winter’s coming. That building can’t sit empty any longer,” said Guza.

Guza, who is also president of the Bad Axe Historical Society, said Hubbard Memorial Hospital was built in 1906 by Frank Hubbard, to serve the people of the community and surrounding area. A second addition, on the west side of the structure, was constructed in 1912.

The hospital, which served many families in the area in its time, closed in the late 1960s and by the early 1970s was converted into apartments to continue to serve the community for individuals and families to call home.

It has sat vacant for the past two years.

In his efforts, Guza said the Friends of Hubbard Memorial Hospital has partnered with the City of Bad Axe, county officials, the state of Michigan and federal government for available funding and tax abatements.

But first, the property must be purchased. And Guza is leaning on the community for help, because he has seen the need for affordable housing for people in the community.

“I love my community,” Guza said.

In addition, Guza says, he would like to help erase the poor reputation the property has gained over the years, following two years of neglect.

“We’re going to try to get rid of that stigma and that reputation from the property,” he said.

If interested in donating to the cause, there are three ways:

• Send a check to: Friends of Hubbard Memorial Hospital c/o 1118 N. Collon Drive, Bad Axe, MI 48413

• Make a GoFundMe donation: gofund.me/50243ebe

• Or visit Northstar Bank at www.northstarathome.com