FASCINATING history behind Savernake Hospital in Marlborough was first brought to life at an exhibition in 2009 and now the Friends group who organised it have delved further into its past.
They are researching the lives of some of the significant characters that shaped the hospital, which first opened in 1866, including a stubborn donkey who transported nurses, medicines and water.
The donkey’s name has not yet been discovered but the animal features in articles dating from 1899-1916. Sadly, soon after being retired it was killed by a Motor Car.
Other extensive research by former committee member Val Compton, with the help of Janet Louth the chair of Friends of Savernake Hospital and the Community, has also been collected on one of the most notable matrons Evelyn Lavington.
She was born in Fyfield House near Marlborough in 1875 and was the eldest daughter of Mr and Mrs Thomas Lavington. She trained in nursing at the Nightingale School, where she also met Florence Nightingale, who despite being elderly still took a great interest in the trainee nurses.
Health problems forced Miss Lavington to leave London and returning to Marlborough in 1914, she worked voluntarily in the Red Cross Hospital, subsequently becoming matron.
Her voluntary work continued at Savernake between the two world wars, transforming the small 20 bedded hospital into one of the best cottage hospitals in the country.
With new buildings, equipment and modern ways of nursing, the success of Savernake attracted visiting specialists and huge support from the community.
Finding 100 beds was the limit, Miss Lavington would ‘top and tail’ children in the beds – much to the surprise of Charles, Prince of Wales when he visited – and willingly give up her own bed to a patient when required.
Her loving kindness was legendary and generosity of spirit went hand in hand with her outstanding skills. Her devotion as a nurse was unsurpassed; it was said of her that if she saw a chance of saving a life, she would sit up all night with a patient, continuing her work as usual next day.
She was matron from 1919 – 1937. Her resignation from Savernake was prompted by more ill health and was accepted with deepest regret. She died in 1956.
For more information on the Friends charity go to: friendsofsavernake.org
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