WACO — After years of deliberation, Waco's most arguably historical hospital, Hillcrest Herrying Campus, is set for demolition.
Opened May 25, 1920, the historical facility has seen many Central Texans through many of life's important moments.
"All three of my children were born there," remembered Larry Holze.
"Thousands of children...but we also have to think of all the people who were put in the hospital for various reasons and survived, and, sadly enough, think of all the people who have passed away. I mean my mom and dad, my wife, they all died in that hospital," said Holze.
The 600,000 square foot behemoth standing on the corner of Herring and 30th has evolved over its century in existence.
Originally named The Central Texas Baptist Sanitarium, the hospital has been renamed numerous times, until later transitioning to Hillcrest Hospital, but its mission 'to serve the sick people of Waco and surrounding areas in a welcoming, christian environment' has always stayed the same.
"Its a very special place to me because when I came to Waco, my wife and I relocated back to Texas my first office and job was at Herring Ave," remembered Glenn Robinson, the retired Hillcrest Hospital President, now special adviser for Baylor Scott & White Health.
The hospital's team worked tirelessly for many years advocating that the historical Hillcrest site be converted into a state run mental health facility, though funds set aside to effort such transformation were diverted to Hurricane Harvey relief. Robinson explained they planned to lobby during the next legislature, but the pandemic began.
"Unfortunately, we understand the perimeters of state funding, especially post-covid...we're very sad and disappointed but we're also excited about the possibility to take the facility down and return the property back to the neighborhood and community," said Robinson.
"I know a whole lot of Waco people are sad to hear the news that it's going to be torn down and I think it'll forever be the corner where Hillcrest lived," said Holze.
Fencing is planned to be installed Monday, August 17 in preparation for the demolish. Hospital representatives explained there will be closures along 30th in Waco for the demolition, which is set to take fourteen months.
