Before you stands the Yettie Kersting Plaque. It’s a simple marker but it tells a powerful story. This plaque honors Yettie Kersting a remarkable woman whose generosity transformed Liberty Texas.
Yettie wasn’t born wealthy. Born in 1863 she was the youngest of five children. Her father a German immigrant was a farmer. Yettie worked hard. She built a successful millinery business. She sold hats laces and ribbons. She was a respected businesswoman in a male-dominated world. She saved diligently. She invested wisely mostly in real estate.
Her ambition went beyond personal success. Yettie dreamt of a hospital for everyone. She didn’t want anyone turned away because of their race or inability to pay. At 72 she decided to donate her estate to establish just such a hospital.
In 1940 construction began on the first unit. It cost $18000. It opened in 1941. Ironically Yettie became its first patient. Sadly she died there five weeks later. She died in the hospital she founded. She gave it for the relief of suffering humanity.
The original hospital wasn’t big enough. A larger facility was built in 1951. It cost $400000. It was called the Yettie Kersting Memorial Hospital. Today it’s the Liberty-Dayton Regional Medical Center.
The Yettie Kersting Plaque stands as a testament. It’s a testament to her vision. It’s a tribute to her compassion. It’s a reminder of her legacy a legacy of service and equality. Her life and her gift continue to improve lives in Liberty. Remember her story. Remember her generosity. Remember Yettie Kersting.