Superintendent of Nursing, Amelia Smith, at far right, caring for patients in the women's ward of Maine General Hospital. Dr. Allston Hunt is pictured next to Smith.

Maine General Hospital's 19th-century patients enjoyed few physical comforts and little privacy. Heavy iron beds were lined up in two facing rows, 20 to a ward. Spacious windows provided the ward's light, and flowers were allowed in the women's ward. Visiting hours were restricted to one hour a day, except Sundays. Female patients couldn't have male visitors outside of their immediate families and, in theory, each patient was allowed only one visitor at a time, though this rule was often not enforced.

Anyone wishing to be admitted to the hospital could apply to the resident physician, Dr. Hunt, in person, by request from a friend if too sick to travel, or in writing if the patient lived out of town. Although the MGH admitting committee accepted almost everyone who applied, patients with incurable or chronic illnesses were refused, as well as those with highly contagious diseases.

Members of the public could purchase a bed for the year, ensuring their use of it when necessary. When not in use, these beds could be offered to patients unable to pay for up to three months.