THE BEGINNING — SDHA’s First Annual Convention (1927)
As SDAHO continues its year-long celebration of 100 years, our Century Strong: From the SDAHO Vault series takes a look back at the people, places, and moments that shaped our Association. This month, we revisit the very beginning: the first Annual Convention of the South Dakota Hospital Association (SDHA), held on May 2, 1927, at the Marvin Hughitt Hotel in Huron, South Dakota.
Organizing a Statewide Voice for Hospitals
The South Dakota Hospital Association was formally organized in the fall of 1926 during an informal meeting in Huron. The effort was led primarily by Dick Braskamp, then superintendent of Lincoln Hospital in Aberdeen. Braskamp worked closely with the hospital’s Chief of Staff, the late Dr. R.L. Murdy, and received enthusiastic support from several early leaders including Dr. F.E. Clough of Lead, Dr. Peabody of Webster, and Dr. Bartron of Watertown.
Their shared goal: strengthen the collective voice of hospitals across the state and support one another in improving care for South Dakotans.
The First Officers (1927)
The inaugural leadership team reflected the statewide collaboration that defined SDHA from the start:
- President: Dr. F.E. Clough – Lead, SD
- Vice President: Sister Flavia – Yankton, SD
- Secretary–Treasurer: D.L. “Dick” Braskamp – Aberdeen, SD
- Trustee: Dr. R.S. Westaby – Madison, SD
- Trustee: Elmer Anderson – Watertown, SD
Braskamp, who guided much of the Association’s early development as secretary, went on to become president of the California Hospital Association and later superintendent of Alhambra Memorial Hospital in California — a testament to his leadership and influence.
Life in South Dakota at the Time
When SDHA formed, South Dakota was experiencing relatively stable economic conditions. The inflationary spike that followed World War I had tapered off, and community hospitals were focused on meeting local needs with limited resources. As early leaders gathered in Huron, no one could have predicted the challenges the next 25 years would bring — from the Great Depression to World War II and beyond.
The 2nd Annual Convention: Looking Forward
By the time the second annual conference arrived, SDHA was already concentrating on how to better serve its members. Discussions centered on strengthening services, enhancing public relations, and helping communities become more “hospital-conscious” — themes that continue to resonate in modern health care today.
As we celebrate a century of health care leadership, these early moments remind us of the dedication, vision, and collaboration that built the foundation for today’s SDAHO. Stay tuned for next month’s installment as we continue to explore the stories preserved in The SDAHO Vault.
Learn more about SDAHO’s milestone year, by visiting: sdaho.org/100th
