Mayo Clinic is the new owner of Assisi Heights - Post Bulletin

Rochester, Minnesota has witnessed a significant transfer of property as Mayo Clinic recently acquired the expansive campus and historic buildings of Assisi Heights. The deal, finalized on January 16th, involves a property steeped in history and once home to a large community of religious sisters.

A Historic Transition

While state documents initially listed a purchase price of $15 million, Mayo Clinic officials have indicated this figure is inaccurate, though the correct amount was not disclosed. The sale was initiated by the Sisters of St. Francis, who have resided on the 1001 14th St. NW campus for decades.

Did You Know? Assisi Heights, modeled after the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi, Italy, was dedicated on October 4, 1955.

Sister Tierney Trueman, Congregational Minister and President of the Sisters of Saint Francis, expressed gratitude for Mayo Clinic’s stewardship. “This step reflects many years of thoughtful planning,” she stated. “Assisi Heights will continue to be our home, and we are grateful to entrust its care to Mayo Clinic, an organization that has walked alongside us for generations. We have every confidence that the heart and spirit of this place will be preserved.”

A Changing Community

The Sisters of St. Francis community has significantly decreased in size over the years. In 1962, Assisi Heights housed approximately 1,000 Sisters, a number that had dwindled to 101 by 2026. This demographic shift prompted the Sisters to seek a partner to ensure the long-term care of the extensive property.

Expert Insight: The Sisters’ decision to partner with Mayo Clinic reflects a proactive approach to preserving a historically and culturally significant landmark while addressing the practical realities of a declining population. Entrusting the property to a major healthcare institution suggests a commitment to maintaining the site’s integrity and ensuring its continued use.

Sister Marilyn Geiger, part of the Assisi Heights leadership team, explained that the Sisters specifically requested Mayo Clinic assume responsibility for property maintenance. This arrangement will allow the Sisters to concentrate on their religious life and ministry. Currently, Mayo Clinic plans to maintain the buildings and grounds, and there are no immediate plans to alter staffing or the physical structures.

The campus itself is notable for its over 400,000 square feet of stone buildings, stained glass, statues, and landscaped grounds. Protections are in place to preserve the green space, historic features, and overall character of Assisi Heights.

The connection between the Sisters of St. Francis and the Rochester clinic dates back to 1883, when Mother Maria Alfred Moes proposed the construction of a hospital following a devastating tornado. This longstanding relationship likely played a role in the Sisters’ decision to partner with Mayo Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the sale of Assisi Heights?

The Sisters of St. Francis initiated the sale due to a declining number of Sisters residing at Assisi Heights, making it increasingly challenging to maintain the extensive property.

What are Mayo Clinic’s immediate plans for Assisi Heights?

Mayo Clinic will continue to maintain the buildings and grounds, and there are currently no plans to change staffing or make alterations to the structures.

How long have the Sisters of St. Francis been involved with the Rochester clinic?

The Sisters of St. Francis have been linked to the Rochester clinic since 1883, when Mother Maria Alfred Moes first proposed building a hospital in the city.

As Mayo Clinic assumes stewardship of this historic property, what role do you foresee for preserving the legacy of the Sisters of St. Francis within the campus?

Mayo Clinic is the new owner of Assisi Heights – Post Bulletin