In a moving celebration of history and progress, The Miriam Hospital today opened a time capsule that had been sealed in the cornerstone of its second building—formerly the Jewish Orphanage of Rhode Island—nearly 75 years ago. The capsule was originally placed in 1950 by then hospital president Benjamin Brier.
Marking a once-in-a-lifetime moment for the hospital and the broader community, today’s event welcomed dozens of staff, supporters, and special guests to the hospital’s lawn to witness the unveiling. Among them was Jeffrey G. Brier, Benjamin Brier’s grandson and former chairman of The Miriam Hospital (2004–2008), who joined Hospital President Maria Ducharme, DNP, RN, in revealing the capsule’s contents.
Inside the time capsule were numerous artifacts, including:
- A bundle of letters of support, including one from then-Rhode Island Governor Dennis J. Roberts
- A Sunday edition of the Providence Journal
- A 1925 copy of the Jewish Advocate newspaper, specially dedicated to the Parade Street Hospital dedication
- Original ceremony program
- Several newly minted 1951 dimes and more!
“These items are more than just a reminder of our past, they are a testament to the enduring values of compassion, resilience, and community that continue to define The Miriam Hospital today,” said Maria Ducharme, DNP, RN, President, The Miriam Hospital. “We honor the legacy of those who built and cared for patients in this hospital as we begin The Miriam Hospital’s next phase – a bold reimagining of how we deliver care, grounded in our history and shaped by the very people who live it every day, our dedicated clinicians and staff.”
The event also marked the official start of the hospital’s long-anticipated building replacement project, with the removal of the historic cornerstone serving as both a symbolic and physical first step.
“When my grandfather placed this time capsule in the cornerstone 75 years ago, I doubt he imagined that one of his grandchildren would one day return to open it. Today is not just a celebration of the past, it’s a continuation of a legacy rooted in community, service, and care” said Jeffrey G. Brier, former chairman, The Miriam Hospital Board of Trustees.
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