Katherine Lodge was the longtime owner and steward of the Hadwen-Wright House at 94 Main Street, one of the iconic mansions known as the “Two Greeks” that are a symbol of Nantucket’s past whaling glory.

A strong advocate for the preservation of historic buildings and architecture, Mrs. Lodge loved Nantucket, and was a passionate caretaker of the piece of island history she called home.

Sadly, Mrs. Lodge passed away on May 20, 2014, but she left behind a surprise that will benefit Nantucketers for many years to come.

In her last will and testament, Mrs. Lodge gave the residue of her estate to three island institutions: Nantucket Cottage Hospital, the Nantucket Conservation Foundation, and St. Mary, Our Lady of the Isle Catholic Church.

Her Greek Revival-style mansion, protected by a preservation restriction, was sold by Mrs. Lodge’s estate in October 2014 and the proceeds of the sale provided the major portion of her residue which was divided evenly among the three grateful beneficiaries.

Mrs. Lodge came to know the skilled and compassionate care provided at Nantucket Cottage Hospital as a patient in her final years.

“She was a very straight-forward person, who lived very simply, completely without pretense,” said Dr. Diane Pearl. “She had a wonderful sense of humor and a kind and generous spirit. We all miss her, and we are very grateful for her generous gift to the hospital.”

Mrs. Lodge’s bequest to the hospital was made in memory of her husband, John Allyn Lodge, and is intended for two distinct purposes:

“To create a fund to pay for the care of those who cannot pay their bills and to be used by the Board of Trustees for whatever expansion of the facility is needed.”

The gift to the hospital will thus assist the most vulnerable members of the island community, and also help to ensure the future of quality health care for all on Nantucket. Already in 2015, a portion of the bequest has been utilized to create a new primary care office space for Dr. Pearl.

“This is an extraordinary legacy to leave behind and one that touches some of the most important facets of island life – health, conservation, and faith,” said Dr. Margot Hartmann, president and CEO of Nantucket Cottage Hospital. “I remember visiting Katherine when she was at the hospital. There was a sweetness about her, and as we chatted she encouraged me to visit her at her home. She told me to ‘come right in the kitchen door’.”