Editor,
A year after the Gazette reported on our hospital’s plans to change the name (JCF board mulls over name of new hospital, Sept. 4, 2025), the news that formal financial and construction actions are underway provide a renewed reminder that it’s time for that name change.
A current name nod includes “Mariposa Community Hospital,” which has the sterling advantage of being easily understood by all. Another one, “Mariposa Regional Hospital,” includes a nod to Eastern Madera County folks who also currently use the hospital. And of course, Yosemite and its millions of visitors rely on our hospital, too.
It is well and good to recall why this is happening: Mr. Fremont does not deserve this appellation, and with good reasons: The Sacramento River Massacre overshadows any reason to continue honoring the man. Much more of his ignominious history can be found in two easily accessible places:
• en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacramento_River_massacre
• www.dailyjournal.com/articles/368187-john-fremont-s-california-crimes-and-misdemeanors
A new hospital, the construction of which we agreed to fund with our 1 percent sales tax, is underway. Let’s move to embrace this vital new asset with a new name that befits the value our community holds for this essential service.
Daniel A. Wasil
Mariposa
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