Biography

"In 1830 the first hospital specifically built for the extension of health care was occupied at West Point. The entire staff of the hospital, consisting of a Surgeon, a Steward, a Matron and five attendants, lived in the building, which covered a ground area of 131 by 40 feet and consisted of a basement and two stories. 

Dr. (Major) Walter Wheaton is generally thought of as the first hospital commander, and his portrait occupies the first position in the long line leading up to the present commander. His was a long tenure of some twenty years (1826-1846), and he was much revered by all that knew him. "Wheatoning it" became a common cadet, expression during this period, and referred to the time-honored tradition of "goldbricking."