Samaritan Medical Center Purchases Former Motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Joseph

Published on: December 18, 2025

WATERTOWN, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce the purchase of the former Motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Joseph, located at 1425 Washington Street in Watertown. The historic Motherhouse has long been a cornerstone of the community, and Samaritan is honored to steward its next chapter of service.

The acquisition of the Motherhouse reflects Samaritan’s continued commitment to meeting the evolving health care needs of the North Country. While specific plans for the site are still in development, the purchase will allow Samaritan to transition some of its non-clinical staff to the new location. This move will allow for more efficient use of space within the Medical Center’s main hospital campus, reserving valuable areas there for patient care, clinical operations, and future growth.

 “We recognize the legacy of the Sisters of St. Joseph, and it is with great respect that we ensure that this property will continue to serve a vital purpose in our community,” said Thomas H. Carman, President and CEO of Samaritan. “By relocating non-clinical departments to the Motherhouse location, we preserve its spirit of service while freeing up critical space within the hospital and strengthen our ability to focus on delivering high-quality care where it is needed most.”

“The purchase of our beloved Motherhouse by Samaritan Medical Center allows for the continuation of the Mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Watertown and surrounding area.  Samaritan’s Mission to serve the community with care marked by compassion and quality fits well with the Sisters of St. Joseph Mission to serve “the dear neighbor” through the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy in a spirit of reconciliation and unconditional love,” said Sister Shirley Anne Brown, Major Superior of the Sisters of St. Joseph.

Samaritan will share further details regarding the transition timeline and departments moving to the property as plans are finalized. The location will be called ‘Samaritan Commons’ as it represents various non-clinical services.  This exciting purchase not only allows Samaritan to make the best use of its limited land-locked hospital campus for patient care but also ensures that the former Motherhouse remains a place of non-profit service and purpose. By honoring the legacy of the Sisters of St. Joseph and building upon their tradition of compassion, Samaritan is proud to help shape a future that continues to strengthen health and well-being across the North Country.

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