American Legion Hospital
Perhaps the greatest service that Acadia Post 15 has provided to the citizens of Crowley and the surrounding area was begun in 1929 when Post members made the decision to place the health needs of Crowley citizens above their desire for a meeting place. With the death of Dr. Elijah Ellis, President and principal stockholder of the Crowley Sanitarium (hospital) in August, 1928, Crowley’s only hospital closed. The town was left without a hospital. However, the Legionnaires voted unanimously to use their entire building fund to purchase the majority stock of Ellis from his estate. With the addition of a generous loan from W.E. Lawson and the fiscal responsibility of Treasurer Ike Broussard, the hospital was reopened. Eventually, all outstanding stock was donated to the American Legion.
Under the leadership of Acadia Post commander Vincent Daigle, the hospital, now known as Legion Memorial Hospital, began operation in June, 1929. It functioned within a large two story wood frame building. However, by the mid-1940’s, it was clear that the facilities were inadequate.
Construction of a new brick hospital, under the name of American Legion Hospital, was completed in late 1950. Throughout the years, additions and improvements were made. New operating rooms were added in 1953. The 22-patient rooms would grow to 80 rooms by the 1980’s. An obstetrical wing, laboratory, medical records department , kitchen expansion, and more office space would also be added.
As Crowley entered the 1980’s, it was clear that another hospital would be necessary for the community to keep pace with medical technology. Construction of a two story (now 3 story 140 bed facility was opened in 1987.
Another major change occurred in June of 2014. Lafayette General Foundation entered into a 10 year lease with the American Legion. Although the Legion retains ownership of the building, property, and all improvements, the Lafayette General Health Network makes management decisions for the hospital. Currently, funds are being raised for a bigger emergency room facility.
