Hilton Head Island, August 18, 2025
News Summary
Hilton Head Island marks the 50th anniversary of Hilton Head Hospital, which opened on August 21, 1975. Founded by Dr. Peter LaMotte and William Bethea Jr., the 40-bed facility has grown significantly, improving local healthcare access and becoming a vital community and economic driver. The anniversary celebration recognized the hospital’s dedication to serving the community, emphasizing its commitment to quality healthcare under Novant Health, which acquired the hospital in 2024.
Hilton Head Island is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its crucial healthcare facility, the Hilton Head Hospital, which officially opened its doors on August 21, 1975. The hospital was established to meet the growing healthcare needs of a community primarily composed of retirees. Originally a 40-bed facility, the hospital welcomed its first patient, who suffered from a dislocated compound fracture after a biking accident.
The journey to establishing Hilton Head Hospital began with Dr. Peter LaMotte, a former chief of trauma in orthopedic surgery at Roosevelt Hospital in New York, and local attorney William Bethea Jr. Their vision was to create a healthcare institution that would serve the expanding population of Hilton Head Island. At the time, residents faced a stressful hour-long drive to Beaufort or Savannah for medical assistance.
The construction of the hospital was not without its challenges; it required new legislation and substantial financing, including $11.2 million raised through revenue bonds. The Beaufort County Council played a significant role in endorsing these bonds, which were vital for the hospital’s creation. Moreover, the Hospital Auxiliary was instrumental in supporting the new institution by raising funds and contributing volunteer efforts during its developmental stages.
Over the decades, Hilton Head Hospital has seen significant growth and expansion, transitioning from an initial 40-bed hospital to fulfilling the healthcare needs of the community. The expansion and enhancement of facilities were driven by Dr. LaMotte’s aspiration to offer private rooms and ensure that all physicians were board-certified, aiming for standards comparable to prestigious institutions like the Mayo Clinic. The hospital has become a cornerstone in meeting everyday medical needs in the region.
The 50th-anniversary celebration took place on August 8, 2025, hosted by Novant Health, which acquired the hospital in 2024. The event brought together current and former employees, local community leaders, and citizens who have benefited from the hospital’s services. Market CEO Joel Taylor emphasized the lasting commitment of Hilton Head Hospital to the community throughout its history.
Hilton Head Hospital’s legacy extends beyond healthcare; it has become an essential economic driver for the region. Its successful transformation has also contributed to the establishment of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, which raised $22 million from the hospital’s sale in the mid-1990s. This foundation continues to impact the community positively.
Looking ahead, Novant Health has signaled plans to focus on further improving patient care while honoring the hospital’s historical significance. The tale of Hilton Head Hospital is one of community determination and resilience, paved by the vision of its founders and the ongoing support from the residents of Hilton Head Island.
Key Milestones of Hilton Head Hospital
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1975 | Hilton Head Hospital founded by Dr. Peter LaMotte and William Bethea Jr. |
| August 21, 1975 | First patient admitted to the hospital. |
| 1990s | Sale of the hospital leading to the creation of the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry. |
| 2024 | Novant Health acquires Hilton Head Hospital. |
| 2025 | 50th anniversary celebration of Hilton Head Hospital. |
FAQ
Who founded Hilton Head Hospital?
Hilton Head Hospital was founded by Dr. Peter LaMotte and local attorney William Bethea Jr. in 1975.
When did the hospital celebrate its 50th anniversary?
The hospital celebrated its 50th anniversary on August 8, 2025.
What was the hospital’s initial bed capacity?
Hilton Head Hospital was originally a 40-bed facility.
How did the hospital impact the community?
The hospital has been essential in providing local healthcare services, reducing the need for residents to travel long distances for medical care, and serving as an economic driver for the region.
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Additional Resources
- WSAV: Hilton Head Hospital Celebrates 50 Year Anniversary
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- Island Packet: Opinion Article
- Google Search: Hilton Head Hospital
- Your Island News: Beaufort Memorial Hospital Celebrates 80th Anniversary
- Google Scholar: Hilton Head Hospital
- UPI: South Carolina-Florida Shark Attacks 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head Island
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
