Bonham in Fannin County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)

Risser Hospital

Photographed By James Hulse, September 27, 2023

1. Risser Hospital Marker

Inscription. Constructed about 1915 by John Sparger, Jr., this building first served as the residence of D.W. Sweeney, a local merchant and banker. In 1956 it was purchased by Dr. Joe A. Risser and opened as an 18-bed hospital, one of several doctor-operated clinics that served the medical needs of Bonham residents. Risser Hospital gained national attention on Nov. 16, 1961, when Sam Rayburn, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, died in the northeast downstairs room while a patient here. Dr. Risser, Rayburn personal physician, operated the facility until 1971, when it was closed.

Erected 1981 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 8927.)

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Science & Medicine. A significant historical date for this entry is October 16, 1961.

Location. 33° 34.95′ N, 96° 10.684′ W. Marker is in Bonham, Texas, in Fannin County. Marker is at the intersection of North Center Street (U.S. 87) and East 10th Street, on the left when traveling north on North Center Street. The marker is located on the right side of the front door. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 921 N Center Street, Bonham TX 75418, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. On Route of Early Texas Streetcars (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); First Presbyterian Church U.S.

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(about 400 feet away); First Baptist Church (about 700 feet away); Bonham High School Auditorium and Gymnasium (approx. 0.2 miles away); First Christian Church of Bonham (approx. 0.2 miles away); First United Methodist Church of Bonham (approx. ¼ mile away); Site of Steger Opera House (approx. ¼ mile away); Confederate Commissary (approx. ¼ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Bonham.

The entrance to the old Risser Hospital building and Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed By James Hulse, September 27, 2023

2. The entrance to the old Risser Hospital building and Marker

The view of the old Risser Hospital building from across the street image. Click for full size.

Photographed By James Hulse, September 27, 2023

3. The view of the old Risser Hospital building from across the street

Credits. This page was last revised on October 4, 2023. It was originally submitted on October 4, 2023, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas. This page has been viewed 63 times since then and 25 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on October 4, 2023, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas.