MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - A major corporate citizen is celebrating a remarkable milestone this week. National HealthCare Corporation (NHC), headquartered just off the historic downtown square, officially marked its 55th anniversary of providing senior care and healthcare services. The company was founded in July 1971 by visionary physician Dr. Carl E. Adams, whose small‑town beginnings in Woodbury ultimately grew into one of the nation’s most respected senior‑care networks.
Dr. Adams’ story starts in neighboring Cannon County, where he practiced medicine alongside his father from 1945 to 1947. Those early years shaped his belief that older adults deserved dignity, continuity of care and access to specialized services regardless of where they lived. His wife, Jennie Mae, shared that same commitment to community, and together they built a philosophy rooted in knowing your patients, serving your neighbors and helping people age with grace.
That philosophy followed the couple to Murfreesboro. In 1949, Dr. Adams partnered with Dr. S.C. Garrison to establish Murfreesboro Medical Clinic, the region’s first multi‑specialty group practice. It was a groundbreaking move that helped modernize healthcare delivery in Middle Tennessee and set the stage for even bigger ideas.
By 1971, Dr. Adams shifted his focus entirely to senior care, founding National HealthCare Corporation. What began with 14 skilled nursing centers has grown into a network operating in 11 states, employing nearly 13,000 partners, and serving thousands of families. NHC’s 15‑story headquarters remains a Murfreesboro landmark, symbolizing the Adams family’s enduring vision.
Central to that vision was the “campus concept” — a place where seniors could receive every level of care without losing their sense of home. That idea became AdamsPlace, now considered a national model for integrated senior living. The concept emphasized dignity, independence, continuity of care, community and joy in daily living, and it has influenced senior‑care design across the country.
NHC’s growth continues today. The company recently completed a $560 million real estate acquisition from National Health Investors, taking full ownership of 35 senior facilities. Its services now span skilled nursing, assisted living, independent living, memory care, rehabilitation, homecare, hospice and regional pharmacy operations.
Across the NHC network, individual facilities are celebrating the anniversary with resident events, themed gatherings and community activities — a fitting tribute to 55 years of compassionate care and a legacy that began in a small Woodbury doctor’s office.
