Rich, patriotic history of Cox Barton County
The hospital was built on a vision of hope and renewal, and serving as a remembrance to many brave soldiers. A man named H.C. Chancellor from Lamar led a countywide committee in 1946 to decide how best to honor both the fallen soldiers of WWII and those who had come home. Mr. Chancellor envisioned a permanent memorial, one with lasting value to the county, that would serve as a living tribute to the servicemen and women. The idea of Barton County Memorial Hospital was born and the work to achieve the dream commenced.
On October 2, 1949, a flag raising and presentation ceremony marked the completion of the two-story brick facility. The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the bronze plaque bearing the name of the more than 60 Barton County men who gave their lives for our country in World War II. This plaque and those for subsequent conflicts continue to be prominently displayed at the hospital. We're proud of our facility and its rich, patriotic history.
Over the years, Barton County Memorial Hospital has seen many changes, both with the hospital itself and throughout the region. In 2007, a new dream was realized when the relocated Barton County Memorial Hospital opened its doors at 29 NW First Lane. Not only is the present 64,000 square foot hospital welcoming in appearance, it also provides both patients and visitors added comfort and convenience.
When the hospital joined CoxHealth in 2018, it became Cox Barton County Hospital. One of CoxHealth's main priorities is to improve access to health care for people throughout the Ozarks, especially in rural areas, and we're excited to continue expanding our services for the community.
