HSHS St. Francis Hospital

HSHS St. Francis Hospital

A Legacy of Healing Since 1875

For over a century and a half, HSHS St. Francis Hospital has been the heartbeat of healthcare in Montgomery and Macoupin counties. Its story began in November 1875, when three Hospital Sisters of St. Francis—Sisters Fridolina Pieper, Rosa Walzer, and Augustina Quartmann—arrived in Litchfield from Germany with a mission to care for the sick and poor. They started their work in a simple home, which eventually grew into the modern, full-service medical center that stands today.

Celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2025, the hospital remains true to its Franciscan mission: “to reveal and embody Christ’s healing love for all people.” While deeply rooted in history, the facility is thoroughly modern. The current building (opened in 1971 and expanded since) features a state-of-the-art Surgery Center and a recently remodeled Emergency Department.

Why It Matters to the Region:
St. Francis is a critical lifeline for the area. Notably, it is the only hospital in the two-county area that provides maternity services, welcoming the next generation of locals at its Family Maternity Center. It also serves as a regional hub for specialized care through a partnership with Prairie Cardiovascular, bringing top-tier heart specialists directly to Litchfield so patients don’t have to travel to St. Louis or Springfield.

Services & Amenities:

  • Family Maternity Center: The exclusive provider of obstetrics in the region.

  • Cancer Care Center: providing local access to oncology treatments.

  • Emergency Medicine: A fully staffed, 24/7 Emergency Department (renovated in 2020).

  • Community Support: The hospital campus is home to the St. Clare Food Pantry, continuing the Sisters’ original vow to care for the poor.

  • Worship: A chapel is available for prayer and reflection, open to patients and visitors of all faiths.

Key Stats:

  • Founded: 1875 (celebrating 150 years).

  • Affiliation: Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS).

  • Address: 1215 Franciscan Drive, Litchfield, IL 62056

  • Phone: (217) 324-2191

217-324-2191Get Directions