Although, Canterbury-on-the-Lake has been at its current
location in Waterford since 1994, the history of Canterbury dates
back long before. In 1861 an estate gift of $1,500 was given
to provide funds in order to construct a hospital for the
poor. The new hospital was named St. Luke's Hospital and
Church Home and was located in Detroit, later moving to Highland
Park.
Over the years, many metro Detroit seniors were provided
care from St. Luke's as the hospital continued to grow and evolve;
gradually becoming what is now known as
Canterbury-on-the-Lake. Jane Lawrence, who has enjoyed being
a Canterbury resident since the doors opened, sold the Waterford
site to the not-for-profit organization. The 40-acre site, located
on Hatchery road, provided the perfect setting for the retirement
community.
Today, residents can enjoy the natural Waterford land, which has
been kept in its original state in order preserve the
wetlands. Additional areas have been developed, providing
amenities that take advantage of the sites original natural
beauty.
Many of Canterbury's staff members have been with Canterbury
since its 1994 opening.
1853
Matilda Caniff left $1500 to St. Paul’s church “for the purpose of erecting a Hospital for the poor of the Episcopal denomination in the city, to be called St. Luke’s Hospital.“
1863
Mrs. H.R. Andrews donated a house she owned on Lafayette between Griswold and Shelby so that the Hospital could become an operating entity. Articles of Association for the incorporation of St. Luke’s Hospital and Church Home were filed.
1865
Land was purchased on West Fort Street, just beyond Clark Street but money was not available to develop it. That was when Harper Hospital offered the use of one of their unoccupied buildings rent-free. St. Luke’s moved into that location for two years.
1868
Old St. Luke’s, erected in 1868
Old St. Luke’s was erected on West Fort Street. It was reported to be a “superstructure” of brick on a “splendid site” with a gravelly knoll.
1881
It was reported that St. Luke’s had real property and buildings valued at $50,000 and that securities and other personal property exceeded $31,000. This was the result of good financial management and stewardship through some very challenging years.
1916
A typical residents room in the early 1920’s
The decision was made to sell the St. Luke’s property to the Pennsylvania Railroad and move to suburban Highland Park. The area has been experiencing rapid industrial growth bringing railroads and factories, many of which were built in St. Luke’s backyard. The new facility in Highland Park attracted a waiting list for residency. The Home cared equally for the indigent and the moderately well-to-do with no questions asked, thanks to its generous endowment.
1948
When the Highland Park facility was built, “St. Luke’s Hospital” was carved over the door. By that time, residents were admitted on a life-care basis and the only hospital services were for those residents. When the charter was renewed on October 4, 1948, the name “St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Home” was adopted.
1990
Jane and Larry Lawrence
St. Luke’s had become old and out of date. The board conducted an extensive search to find a property that would support a modern continuing care retirement center. 40 acres were found in Waterford and purchased from Jane Windeler Lawrence.
1991
Artist rendering
Canterbury-on-the-Lake breaks ground.
1993
Canterbury-on-the-Lake in Waterford begins to come to life.
1993
The work on St. Luke's Chapel and the sign on Hatchery Road are almost complete.
1994-Today
Canterbury-on-the-Lake opens its doors.