History
Explore the rich heritage of the VA Northern Arizona Healthcare System.
Our history
The Bob Stump VA Hospital in Prescott, Arizona, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Originally established as Fort Whipple in 1864, the site has undergone several transformations to become the medical center it is today.
Early History
Fort Whipple was initially set up in December 1863 at Del Rio Springs, Arizona, and was permanently relocated to its current site near Prescott in May 1864. The fort served to protect settlers and miners in the area surrounding the newly established territorial capital of Prescott.
Transition to Medical Facility
In 1920, the property was loaned to the U.S. Public Health Service and operated as Hospital #50, Whipple Barracks, Arizona, primarily treating former soldiers with tuberculosis. In 1922, it was transferred to the newly established U.S. Veterans Bureau.
Veterans Administration Era
On March 4, 1931, the facility was officially transferred to the newly formed Veterans Administration (VA). Between 1938 and 1939, the main hospital building (Building 107) was constructed, opening to receive patients in October 1939.
Modern Era
In 1959, the hospital was re-designated as a general medical and surgical hospital. The VA celebrated the 100-year anniversary of Fort Whipple in 1964. In 1989, the Veterans Administration became the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.
Northern Arizona VA Health Care System
In 1995, a reorganization led to the facility being officially named the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System (NAVAHCS). Today, it serves a population of about 75,000 Veterans in North Central Arizona.
Bob Stump Renaming
On April 17, 2004, the medical center was renamed the Bob Stump Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, honoring Congressman Robert "Bob" Lee Stump, who represented Arizona's 3rd Congressional district from 1977 to 2003.
The Bob Stump VA Medical Center continues to serve veterans with a range of health services, including an 85-bed community living center, a 15-bed unit for acute care, and a 120-bed domiciliary for mental health treatment.