Oaklawn Celebrates 100 Years of Care with Unforgettable Community Celebration in Downtown Marshall
MARSHALL, Mich. — On Friday, July 25, Oaklawn marked a historic milestone — exactly 100 years to the day that its first patient was treated in the hospital — with a Centennial Celebration that brought the entire community together in downtown Marshall’s Activation Zone.
What began in 1925 as a small hospital inside a residential home has grown into a leading regional healthcare provider with over 1,000 dedicated employees. Friday’s celebration honored that remarkable journey while looking ahead to the future of care.
The evening was packed with family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and heartfelt moments. Children enjoyed face painting, balloon twisters, and a hands-on bubble station, while guests of all ages indulged in food truck favorites including wood-fired pizza, savory barbecue, and the local ice cream truck. The Social District was open and Schuler’s provided beverages on their back patio, adding to the festive downtown atmosphere.
Guests were treated to a live printing experience with free commemorative Oaklawn t-shirts and tote bags as they explored the celebration. Live entertainment lit up the stage throughout the night, with high-energy music from a dueling pianos duo including former American Idol contestant Matt Giraud, an engaging juggling variety act, and an electrifying fire and LED light show that captivated the crowd.
A highlight of the evening was a special on-stage tribute to Oaklawn President & CEO Gregg Beeg, delivered by Anna Cool, Community Engagement Specialist from the Office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer. The tribute recognized Oaklawn’s century of exceptional service and commitment to the health of residents across Calhoun County and beyond.
The celebration concluded with a spectacular 15-minute drone show, filling the night sky with dazzling animations including the Oaklawn 100-year logo, Marshall’s iconic fountain, and a series of playful designs that delighted attendees.
Oaklawn extends its deepest thanks to all vendors, volunteers, and community partners who made the evening possible and a special thanks to the community members who joined in the celebration.
Here’s to the next 100 years of compassionate, high-quality, community-driven care.
