About this Unit
Portsmouth Naval Hospital, officially known as Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP), is the oldest continuously operating hospital in the U.S. Navy, established in 1827 in Portsmouth, Virginia. Throughout its history, the hospital has served military personnel and their families, providing critical medical care during major conflicts such as the Civil War, World Wars I and II, and subsequent military engagements. During wartime, the hospital expanded its capacity and capabilities, treating thousands of wounded sailors and Marines. Today, NMCP continues its tradition of excellence, serving as a major medical center for the U.S. Navy and a key component of military healthcare on the East Coast.
Historical Facts
•
Oldest Continually Operating Naval Hospital: Portsmouth Naval Hospital, officially known as Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, was established in 1827, making it the oldest continuously running hospital in the US Navy.
•
Commanded by a Future President: Dr. William Maxwell, the hospital's first medical officer, set high standards for military medicine. Over the years, several notable figures, including future President Franklin Pierce, served at the hospital during their military careers.
•
Civil War Significance: During the Civil War, Portsmouth Naval Hospital treated both Union and Confederate soldiers, reflecting the complicated loyalties of the region.
•
World War II Expansion: The hospital expanded rapidly during World War II, treating tens of thousands of wounded and sick sailors, Marines, and soldiers, and training thousands of medical personnel.
•
Historic Architecture: The original hospital building, known as Building 1 or the "Historic Building," is a National Historic Landmark and remains an iconic feature of the hospital complex.
•
Medical Innovations: Portsmouth Naval Hospital pioneered several medical procedures and was among the first military hospitals to use X-rays in the late 19th century.
•
Presidential Visits: Over its history, the hospital has hosted numerous dignitaries and presidents, including Abraham Lincoln, who visited wounded Union soldiers there during the Civil War.
•
Prisoner of War Care: The hospital provided care for prisoners of war during multiple conflicts, most notably during World War II, when German POWs were treated alongside American servicemen.
•
Nurses' Contributions: Navy nurses have played a pivotal role at Portsmouth, including the "Sacred Twenty" — the first group of women to formally serve as Navy nurses, who helped set standards for military nursing at the hospital.
•
Modern Medical Excellence: Today, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth is a leading teaching hospital, offering advanced care to active duty, veterans, and their families, and continues to participate in cutting-edge medical research and humanitarian missions.
