Stratford General Hospital Archives Hoping to Expand Collection
May 18, 2022
The Stratford General Hospital (SGH) Archives is actively seeking items to add to its collection that will enhance its knowledge and understanding of the rich history of medicine in Stratford and area.
Established in 1993, the Archives showcases the history of the nurses training school which operated from 1892 to 1971, and the hospital. The Archive’s collection includes various records, medical equipment and commemorative nursing pins and rings.
“Each and every piece from the collection tells a story, makes a historical statement. It reflects the values and influences of its time in our institution and in our community. It’s the real deal about our past,” says Janette Veal, Archives Volunteer.
Donations of SGH School of Nursing pins and rings would be especially appreciated. Memorabilia and artifacts such as: nursing documents, early 20th or late 19th century napkin rings, nurses’ instrument kits, vintage stethoscope, vintage labelled medication containers, vintage Oxford style duty shoes (white or black) and wrought iron basin stands are also of interest.
All donations will be catalogued and preserved by Archive volunteers. Throughout the year the Archives creates displays for the hospital’s Main Lobby and other events to showcase our proud heritage and the changing face of hospital care.
“It is our hope in partnership with SGH Foundation to expand our exhibit space with the creation of a new gallery to accommodate larger furnishings, medical equipment, and mannequins,” adds Veal. “Community donations are an excellent opportunity to contribute to the growing awareness of the rich resources of our hospital history.”
Those interested in donating items can leave a message at 519-272-8210 ext. 2547 or can complete this form.
L to R: Stratford General Hospital Archive volunteers Joan MacDermid and Janette Veal showcase some items from the collection.
Joan is holding a photograph of Alexandra Munn. Alexandra was a graduate of the Stratford General Hospital Training School for Nurses in 1913. She was Lady Superintendent of the school from 1919 to 1927. In 1927 she was seconded to by the Ontario Department of Health to set up standardized registration exams for graduating nurses in Ontario. Below the photo on the left is the gold and red enamel pin given to her on graduation. It has a gold S with an engraving of Stratford General Hospital superimposed over a red enamel cross, embellished with gold filigree. The pin on the right is the gold medallion given by the City of Stratford for highest proficiency. It features the Coat of Arms of Stratford with a locomotive in the centre.
Janette is holding a silver sugar bowl presented to Stratford General Hospital on its opening in May 1891. It was a gift of Mrs. W. E. Jones wife of William Jones, a jeweler on Market Street.