Spanish Military Hospital Museum, St. Augustine

The Spanish Military Hospital Museum is a fascinating attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into medical practices during the Second Spanish Period (1784-1821). The museum is open every day from 9am to 5pm, and tours are available on demand throughout the day.

The hospital was originally built during the First Spanish Period and consisted of Hospital West. During the British occupation, it was remodeled into a dwelling by William Watson, a Scottish carpenter. It became a hospital complex during the Second Spanish Period and consisted of Hospital West, Hospital East (constructed during the British Period), and the Apothecary in the William Watson House.
The hospital was strictly a military facility, and only military personnel were treated and worked there.

The Spanish Military Hospital was reconstructed in the 1960s by the St. Augustine Historical Restoration and Preservation Commission, and in 1968, the reconstructed Hospital East building was opened to the public. The Medical Museum was dedicated and opened on the second floor in July 1973 but was closed in 1977 due to costs. The museum was reopened in 1990 as part of the Restored San Agustín Antiguo living history program.

Today, the building is owned by the State of Florida, managed by the University of Florida, and operated by a private business. Visitors can take tours that recreate the hospital practices of the late 18th century.