Archbold Hospitals marked its 100th anniversary throughout 2025 with a series of events, employee celebrations, and community recognitions. The organization expressed gratitude for the support received from the community over the past century and highlighted the trust placed in Archbold by families across the region.
Founded as John D. Archbold Memorial Hospital in Thomasville in 1925, Archbold has grown over the years but maintains its commitment to providing safe and innovative care. The centennial celebrations brought together current and former staff, community members, and supporters to honor Archbold’s role in South Georgia.
“As the year comes to a close, we would like to thank each person who made Archbold’s centennial celebrations a success—it was a special year throughout the Archbold system,” said Darcy Craven, Archbold President/CEO. “I specifically enjoyed seeing the Archbold team come together to celebrate our history and the vital work we do every day.”
The organization credits its continued success to thousands of dedicated team members, financial supporters, and ongoing belief in delivering quality healthcare locally. “I would like to express my gratitude to the Archbold team members, organizational leadership and board members, supporters and friends, government representatives, and so many others who have made Archbold what it is today,” Craven added. “I’d also like to thank every person who puts their trust in our team when they walk through the doors of an Archbold facility—we will always consider it an honor to serve you.”
Centennial events included publication of a history book titled “A Century of Healing” by C.L. Bragg—a 620-page account available at local retailers—and features in regional publications such as Thomasville Magazine and WALB. A centennial video highlighting key moments reached more than 300,000 views online. These materials remain accessible on Archbold’s Centennial webpage.
Employee participation included wearing commemorative shirts featuring historic images of the hospital and forming a large “100” on hospital grounds during Hospital Week. Staff also joined community parades with themed floats and attended special gatherings at notable local sites.
On June 30th, state officials, leaders, employees, and supporters gathered for a ceremony marking the hospital’s original dedication date. The event featured installation of a new historical marker and public displays celebrating both history and future goals.
Archbold originated from a $1.5 million donation by John F. “Jack” Archbold in memory of his father—an act that began a longstanding tradition of community support for healthcare initiatives in South Georgia.
“As it opened in 1925, Archbold remains a not-for-profit, community-led organization committed to the people of the region,” said E. Vann Middleton, President of the Archbold Foundation.
To commemorate this milestone year, many employees and supporters contributed gifts supporting projects such as funding for a new maternity center through donations made via the Archbold Foundation.
The organization concluded its message with thanks for making its centennial memorable while reaffirming its mission to deliver care into its next century.
