The old King's Daughters Hospital on South 22nd Street in Temple is a beautiful building, and next week it will be officially recognized as a historic location.

The building at 304 South 22nd, which has been home to Central Counties Services for 43 years, will be honored by the Temple Historic Preservation Committee on Tuesday, September 25th during a ceremony scheduled for 4 PM.

Central Counties Services moved their headquarters into the former King’s Daughters in 1975. The 50,000 square foot building is over 100 years old. The first fireproof wing was built in 1913, and in 1957 the hospital received a grant to remodel the old nursing dormitory into 12 patient rooms.

However, the location became inadequate for the growing hospital. In 1983, the land and hospital were deeded to Central Counties Services by the Board of Directors of King’s Daughters.

For over 50 years, Central Counties Services has been a recognized service expert in Central Texas for people with mental illness, intellectual disabilities, and developmental delays. They provide treatment and resources to the citizens of Bell, Coryell, Hamilton, Lampasas, and Milam Counties.

Many of the services they provide not only improve lives, but save them. (I won't go into details, but their help really did save the life of one of my family members, for which I will be eternally grateful.)

The historic marker will honor not only the history of the structure itself, but of the people who've worked to improve the lives of Central Texans in the facility since its construction.

The building is a beautiful example of early 20th century architecture. If you've never seen it, I recommend driving by some time and taking a look. Just be respectful and keep in mind the privacy and space of guests, patients, and employees.


The Historic Marker Program was designed to recognize historically significant structures and organizations within the city of Temple while encouraging preservation and restoration.

In order for a property or organization to be considered for a Temple Historic Marker, the property owner must fill out an application and submit it with supporting documentation to the Historic Preservation Committee.

Anyone interested in learning more about Central Counties Services or the Temple Historic Marker Program is encouraged to attend.

Please RSVP by calling the Temple Visitor Center at (254) 298-5900.

 

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