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Franke Tobey Jones Celebrates its Centennial This Year

By Christine Hall

On July 16, 1924, the Franke Tobey Jones Home cornerstone was laid on a spectacular five-acre site with views of Commencement Bay and Mount Rainier. With a wheelbarrow and spade, Mrs. Franke Tobey Jones, at the age of 80, presided over the ceremony. On March 24, 1925 the Home opened, a beautiful Tudor-style building with private accommodations for up to 65 residents. It was soon recognized as one of the most outstanding facilities in the nation.

Mrs. Franke Tobey Jones

From her beginnings in Jay, New York through recession, war and prosperity, the story of Ms. Franke Tobey Jones is a remarkable one. She had a heart of giving and cared deeply for people. She had a strong passion for the elderly, and because of her prosperity, she wanted to share her wealth for the betterment of seniors. The care and service philosophy of Franke Tobey Jones has evolved from an institution that simply provided comfortable and attractive accommodations, good wholesome meals and basic infirmary services for the elderly, into a holistic center with a healthy and stimulating environment for residents and community members. This new way of life is based on the concept of wellness as an integrated system for promoting physical, mental and emotional well-being.

FTJ Legacy Lives On

Ms. Franke Tobey Jones’ legacy lives on at Franke Tobey Jones senior living community, as we continue 100 years later to embrace her philosophy of giving back to seniors and our greater community through our mission: To enrich and extend the quality of life for seniors in our community. As a not-for-profit organization, we provide senior residential services, a supportive continuum of care and innovative community outreach.

2024

Throughout 2024 Franke Tobey Jones will be celebrating this amazing legacy and history of residential accommodations, care, innovation and holistic well-being for residents and the greater community with educational classes, displays, articles and events.  Stay tuned for more exciting details.

Side Note:

In 1924, the world witnessed significant historical events and  cultural developments. The year marked the beginning of a new era in American politics with the election of Calvin Coolidge as the 30th President of the United States, who would go on to promote a conservative economic agenda. In the world of  science, Edwin Hubble made groundbreaking observations that confirmed the existence of galaxies beyond the Milky Way, revolutionizing our understanding of the universe. The summer Olympics were held in Paris, attracting athletes from around the world. In popular culture, the silent film industry was still thriving, and notable films like “The Thief of Bagdad” were released. It was a year of great change and upheaval, but also of progress and innovation. It was a year that laid the foundation for future developments in politics, science and entertainment.