Sisters of Saint Francis

The Sisters of Saint Francis, who founded Saint Marys Hospital, were frequent guests. A member of the crew recalled:

“They would rustle along the passageway and over the decks in their black and brown habits, scurrying here and there in fear of missing something...” Crew member

“Every year each Sister at Saint Marys Hospital was a guest. The Sisters would come over in groups of 14 for an overnight trip. It took a week to complete these trips. This was the most relaxation they had in their dedicated lives. They would rustle along the passageway and over the decks in their black and brown habits, scurrying here and there in fear of missing something... It was evident that they loved Dr. Will.”

Another group of Sisters rewrote the Minnesota state song, beginning that rousing anthem with the words: "Doctor Mayo, Hail to Thee!"

Even after the passage of many years, the logbooks convey a conversational quality with an immediacy that makes each trip seem like yesterday.

“The day was unusually pleasant with bright sunshine and warm weather. The water was clear and slightly rippling. The hills were most picturesque with the leaves just turning color. We went down the river and anchored near the bridge at Winona. Had a most restful night. The fishing was also good. Ask Sister M. Teckla about the fish she caught.”

The Mayos were equally hospitable to nurses from the clinic and other Rochester hospitals, as well as employees, neighbors and friends.

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