The hospital was founded as a result of a bequest by Alexander Gray (d. 1807), who was born in Elgin but worked as a surgeon for the East India Company.[1] His will was contested by his family, but eventually his bequest of £20,000 'for the establishment of a hospital in the town of Elgin for the sick and poor of the county of Murray (Moray)' was proven in the Court of Chancery.[1]
The hospital was designed by James Gillespie Graham, featuring a large classical block with giant Doric columns that supported a portico and was topped with drum tower and dome.[2] Work on building the hospital at the western end of the town's High Street started in 1815 and the hospital opened on 1 January 1819, providing 30 beds that could be used for any parishioner of Moray who could produce a note of recommendation from their local minister of the established church.[3] Often those of the Episcopalian or Catholic faith were turned away, causing conflict with the Burgh council on a number of occasions. Some patients who required urgent assistance were sent home critically ill lacking the paperwork from the Kirk minister, ultimately causing their death.[4]
A £22 million redevelopment of the hospital took place between 1992 and 1997 and included extensive refurbishment of existing facilities. The first stage, completed in May 1995, created a new complex for obstetrics, gynaecology and paediatric services, three new operating theatres and five new lifts.[5] In January 1997 the second stage of redevelopment was completed, adding a new acute psychiatric ward and a new accident and emergency building.[6]
A sensory garden was opened in 2010 to provide patients, visitors and staff with an attractive place to relax.[7]
In 2012 a further £3 million redevelopment project commenced.[8] The work, which included a new reception area, a rehabilitation ward, children's outpatient area and discharge lounge, was completed in 2013.[9]
Services
Dr Gray's Hospital has 185 inpatient beds.[10] It delivers approximately 1,100 births per year and has had full accreditation as baby friendly since May 2012.[11]
