SAVANNAH, Ga. () — St. Joseph’s Hospital celebrated a major milestone Friday marking their 150th-year serving the Savannah community.

Dignitaries, longtime staff and supporters gathered to honor the hospital’s history and look ahead to its future.

What began as a small marine hospital for sick sailors grew into a regional health leader over the years.

The hospital’s history was on full display including milestones like the opening of its School of Nursing in 1902, a move to the southside in 1970 and decades of expansions, renovations and community care.

The hospital is now known as St. Joseph’s/Candler after entering an agreement with Candler Hospital. The agreement created the region’s largest health care provide, according to the St. Joseph’s/Candler website.

St. Joseph’s leaders said the next chapter will continue to focus on patient-centered care and innovation while honoring a 150-year tradition of service.