Our Story
The William W. Backus Hospital was founded in 1893 through the vision and generosity of William Wolcott Backus and William Albert Slater. Recognizing the urgent need for healthcare in a rapidly growing Norwich, they spearheaded the establishment of a hospital to serve the community. At that time, patients often faced dire circumstances, as serious ailments required travel to distant hospitals, risking their lives in the process.
Slater donated the land for the hospital, while Backus contributed a substantial sum to construct the facility. The hospital opened its doors with 63 beds and a dedicated staff, marking a significant milestone in local healthcare. Today, Backus Hospital has expanded to 213 licensed beds, providing care to over 11,000 inpatients annually and welcoming around 1,000 newborns each year.