History

History of Our 705 House

Gift of Life’s original campus site, at 705 Second Street Southwest, began as a private home built in 1911 for the Judd family. Dr. E. Starr Judd was the first surgical partner (1907) of Drs. Charles and William Mayo.  Renown as an exceptionally productive surgeon, Dr. Judd also found the time in his career to author 339 publications. Beginning in 1919, he simultaneously served as professor of surgery for Mayo Graduate School of Medicine and as chief of the surgical staff at Mayo Clinic. In 1923, he was elected president of the Minnesota State Medical Association, and later elected president of the American Medical Association.

In 1908, he married a niece of the Mayo Brothers, Helen Berkman, daughter of their sister, Gertrude. They raised five children in this home, two of whom pursued careers in surgery. Judd descendants still return to visit and support Gift of Life.

This Georgian colonial home, where the family once lived, is resplendent with mahogany, walnut, oak, and white-maple woods. Its library, two fireplaces, and carved wooden banister delight guests. Three of the four original bedrooms are used as guest rooms for Gift of Life.

History of Our 724 House

After a needs study and considering various options, in 2008 the Board of Directors of Gift of Life launched the “Expansion for Life” campaign to raise funds for a second house.  The final design adhered to the goals of providing a safe and clean homelike environment for patients undergoing medical treatment and supportive of family members as well – welcoming to all.  The building opened late November 2009, making 36 additional guest rooms available for Gift of Life.  In memory of Sister Margeen Hoffmann, who passed away on August 3, 2007, a peace and healing garden was incorporated on the grounds. While the interior has a “newer look” – kitchen appliances are “state of the art” and more – visitors will still find similarities to the house on the main campus, including “curb appeal” or external architectural design in the style of the original Judd home.