The original Midwood Sanatorium was a four-story wooden-framed building in Brooklyn, located on Winthrop Street near the corner of Flatbush Avenue. Like many small hospitals of the time, the building was likely a private residence repurposed into a medical facility. For a more detailed account of its establishment and operations, visit i-brooklyn.
The Expanding Midwood
Since many of the buildings that now stand in Flatbush had yet to be constructed at the time, it can be assumed that the sanatorium was one of the largest structures in the area. North Flatbush was just beginning to develop, adopting an urban style and growing into its new identity. A few blocks away, the Lefferts Manor row houses were being constructed. This growing neighborhood needed a private hospital, and so Midwood Sanatorium opened its doors in 1907.
The term “sanatorium” in this context could refer to either a psychiatric hospital or a long-term care facility. In the United States, the word was often used to describe a place where private patients could undergo medical procedures or recover from conditions such as tuberculosis or, in some cases, out-of-wedlock pregnancies. Essentially, the terms “sanatorium” and “hospital” were interchangeable.
Four Major Fires
Brooklyn had numerous private sanatoriums, but according to newspaper records, Midwood resembled a general hospital for local residents despite its name. Reports from the time suggest that the facility specialized in obstetrics and chronic illnesses.
Nearby hospitals such as Kings County Hospital and Caledonia Hospital did not yet exist. The public almshouse was still in operation at this time, before its conversion into a hospital in 1907. Unfortunately, Midwood Sanatorium suffered frequent fires. Between its opening and 1929, the building experienced four serious fires.
The most devastating fire occurred in 1928, starting on the roof and upper floor. This forced the evacuation of 34 adult patients, 12 infants, and hospital staff. The entire fourth floor and roof were beyond repair. The repeated fires alarmed the hospital’s board, who began advocating for a fireproof brick-and-stone replacement.
A New Fireproof Building
A little-known architect, Philip M. Erickson, was commissioned to design a new sanatorium. It was likely the most significant project of his career. He created an elegant and functional building that could accommodate more patients and staff. Construction was completed in 1929, and the facility immediately began accepting patients.
The new Midwood Sanatorium had 57 beds, with the top floor reserved for surgical procedures. Obstetrics offices and examination rooms were also located there, along with operating theaters.
Colorful Walls
One of the most notable features of the new building was the use of bright, cheerful colors in patient rooms and medical offices. At the time, it was believed that stimulating colors could help improve breathing and lung function. This was a refreshing change from the usual stark white hospital walls.
Midwood Sanatorium’s Legacy
For many years, Midwood Sanatorium served the residents of Flatbush. Local newspapers regularly reported on births, deaths, staff retirements, and doctor appointments at the facility. Many people born in the 1950s first saw the light of day inside Midwood Sanatorium. Several historic photographs exist showing proud parents standing outside the hospital in the 1950s.
The hospital remained operational until the late 1970s. According to some sources, between 1979 and 2000, the building housed St. John’s Elementary School, a private educational institution. Today, it is part of CAMBA, one of New York City’s largest nonprofit organizations providing healthcare and social services.