In 1891, two young physicians forged a partnership: Frank Bunts, MD, who graduated from the Western Reserve Medical School in 1883, and George Crile, Sr., MD, who graduated from Wooster Medical College in 1887. William Lower, MD, who graduated from Wooster Medical College in 1891, joined the practice in 1892.
The years leading up to World War I were productive for these young physicians, who developed a reputation for excellence through their large trauma and private practices. All three would be called upon to serve in World War I.Â
Impressed by the efficiency and organization of the military hospitals, these men returned to Cleveland with a novel idea: to create a group practice where medical and surgical care could be delivered, studied and taught by associated specialists. In 1919, the group recruited John Phillips, MD, to complement their surgical skills.
In October 1919, the four doctors formed the Association Building Company to finance and build a new clinic. They issued stock, which was bought by the founders and their families, and leased a parcel of land at Euclid Avenue and E. 93rd Street.Â
Ground was broken for the original Cleveland Clinic building in February 1920. The impressive four-story building was equipped with offices, exam and treatment rooms, balconies, X-ray, labs, pharmacy, administrative offices, a boardroom and library. This original building still stands on main campus.
The Cleveland Clinic Foundation was incorporated on Feb. 5, 1921. At the first meeting of the incorporators on Feb. 21, Dr. Crile was elected president, Dr. Bunts, vice president, Dr. Lower, treasurer, and Dr. Phillips, secretary.Â
In keeping with their vision, the founders decided 25% or more of net income would be reinvested in infrastructure and the Foundation endowment for medical research, education and indigent care. Many innovations would follow, including a series of lectures for community physicians, the pioneering concept behind continuing medical education (CME).
On Feb. 26, 1921, 500 physicians attended the opening ceremony of The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. The founders addressed the audience, and their friend William Mayo, MD, of Mayo Clinic, delivered a moving speech about the new group model of care in Cleveland. The next day, more than 1,500 community members attended an open house.Â
On Feb. 28, the Clinic opened its doors to serve its first 42 patients.Â
The forward-thinking, innovative spirit of its four founders lives on today. One hundred years later, Cleveland Clinic has introduced many firsts in the field of medicine, opened facilities around the world, and is proud to be ranked among the world’s top hospitals.
