🔎 History held in our collection

The first mass-produced sterile surgical sutures were introduced in 1887 by Johnson & Johnson. These were made from natural materials such as catgut or silk.

1/5 The introduction of sterile sutures followed the introduction of antiseptic surgery, by Sir Joseph Lister, in the 1870’s. These were a key development in the history of surgery and greatly reduced post-operative infections, saving many lives.

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Part of our Stoke Park display: sign which used to direct people the Towers Ward, Purdown + photos of hospital activities with information included.

Eg. the “open-air treatment area” which provided open air treatment for convalescents without undue exposure to the sun.

1/4 Five revolving houses which could house two patients sat on a paved area. Large tents were set up in the summer, as well as an enclosure between Ivy Lodge and the hospital blocks for extra accommodation and sun baths.

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