Medical services in the area have played an important role in the overall development and stability of the area especially in the early years with the iron industry and railroad. There were many �country doctors� in the area that had small offices or made house calls. The Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Hospital was established in Clifton Forge in 1897 in the old �Gladys Inn�. It was a 50-bed facility with one surgeon, an intern and five nurses. Covington soon grew to where the need for a hospital was considered necessary. In 1931, a 12-bed facility was opened in Covington and was later named Alleghany Memorial Hospital. Changing needs for medical care in the Alleghany Highlands led to the expansion of both hospitals over the years. In 1976, the two hospitals were merged to one facility, Alleghany Regional Hospital Corporation. This merger also resulted in the establishment of the non-profit organization, The Alleghany Foundation. In 1977 ground was broke for the new hospital in Low Moor and it opened in 1979. This facility too has grown and experienced many changes over the years due to the growing needs of the community. The old C & O Hospital is now the Scott Hill Retirement Complex and the old Alleghany Memorial Hospital houses the Alleghany-Covington Social Services offices. Cultural activities and civic organizations are an essential part of the Alleghany Highlands. The Alleghany Highlands Arts Council was formed over 50 years ago and provides an environment that nurtures and supports the arts. The Alleghany Highlands Arts and Craft Center is located in Clifton Forge and provides a center for exhibits, crafters shop, and educational opportunities. The Alleghany Highlands Center for the Performing Arts is located in the historic Masonic Theater in Clifton Forge. The Center offers programs ranging from plays to musical concerts. Many civic organizations have been a part of the Alleghany Highlands for many years. Some of these clubs and organizations include Ruritan Clubs, Lions Clubs, Kiwanis Clubs, 4-H, Boys and Girl Scouts, American Legion, American Red Cross, Garden Clubs, Women�s Clubs, Masonic organizations, and IOOF.
Posted on: Sun, 18 Jan 2015 21:06:24 +0000