HUBBARD COUNTY history

The nursing home initially opened in October of 1973 with 60 beds.

In 1975, with the purchase of their first facility, Jack and Eldora Vetter began a tradition of care that has endured through the years as a respected example of excellence to many others in the profession.

1980 Expansion: The Brookridge apartment building was built, adding 31 independent living apartments, along with an attached garage to accommodate 35 vehicles.

1986 Expansion & Renovation: The second floor health center of the main building was remodeled, adding a new west wing with six additional rooms.

1998 Expansion: A new health center building was erected, including the Bernard and June Hess Pavilion for dementia residents, Hunt Family Health Center and the Tyler Family Lounge.

1999 Expansion: Assisted living apartments were established on the second floor of the main tower building.

Understanding that Downtown was at a crossroads, some retailers chose to be proactive and organized a Park Rapids Downtown Business Group (later Association) in 2005.

2006 New Service: Heritage House added a dedicated wellness director to help residents maintain their health and well-being, and remain independent and active for as long as possible.

2007 Expansion: Assisted living services were expanded to floors 3 and 4 of the main building.

What almost no one saw coming was the even greater challenge of the economic downturn that started in 2008 and lingers even today.