History

In the early 1920s, Harry Woodward and his sister, Miss Ellen Woodward, envisioned a home for the elderly that would bring Cheshire County's elderly residents peace and contentment. Mr. Woodward died in 1924 and left the first of funds that were later to fund the present Home. It was his wish that the Home be for both men and women - where married couples would not be separated, a generous thought as he, himself was a bachelor. The Woodward was incorporated in 1932 upon the death of Ellen Woodward. During the next few years, the fund grew through gifts and bequests of other public-spirited people. Many major structural changes, the first in 1953 when an addition at the rear of 194 was completed and the second, in 1962, was the acquisition of the Harry Kingsbury house at 202 Court Street, have taken place. This was made possible by a substantial gift and a low interest loan by the Kingsbury family. Solarium and lounge areas were constructed to connect the two buildings and an elevator was installed in the early 1990s. The Home now accommodates 24 residents. The Woodward is a not-for-profit organization. We have an active volunteer board of directors, who meet regularly to make sure The Woodward is the best it can be.

Independent Living

The staff is available twenty-four hours a day and all rooms are equipped with an automated alarm for emergencies. We like to believe we go the extra step. The Woodward is your home, so of course people may come and go anytime they please.

We have some residents who drive and others who feel that between The Woodward and city transportation there is no reason to keep a car. There is transportation available for physicians and dentist appointments. Because we know how anxious visits to the doctor can be, we will gladly accompany you so there is an extra set of ears listening for what the doctor or nurse has to say. The Woodward is not a nursing home. However, our staff is on site 24 hours per day, seven days a week, and does include licensed personnel.
 

We hope you will consider taking a tour of The Woodward and let us answer your questions. Perhaps you would like to join us for dinner. The application process is very simple and it costs nothing to investigate.

If you would like additional information or would like to schedule a tour, please call  Jon Blais - Executive Director, at 603-352-6351.