Late in December of 1992, a Marshfield family gave a most generous monetary gift to those who held the dream of what was to become the Hannah Center. The directive was to set up a house where a pregnant woman could come to find refuge, shelter, have a chance for respite, a look at her life and make plans for her future.

On January 19, 1993, twenty-four individuals met at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield, Wisconsin. Diverse ages and occupations were represented. One by one, each was invited to share their observations specific to a pregnant woman alone in our society. A commonality of perceptions was immediately realized. Meetings continued and names for the house were discussed. We wanted a strong name and finally chose Hannah from the Christian Bible. In reading her story, you realize that much of her experience of being a woman in her time is similar to being a woman today.
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