Rights Managed > Historic England > Historic Images > Famed Photographers > Bedford Lemere Collection (1860s-1944)
Open air ward BL23137
Filename: bl23137.jpg
Size: 4880 x 3904 (9.2MB)
Date: 30th July 2012
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Archive
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: English Heritage Images
Owner URL: www.englishheritageimages.com
© Historic England
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Open air ward BL23137
WOBURN ABBEY, Bedfordshire. The open air isolation ward in the military hospital showing injured soldiers lying in bed. Open-air treatment was used to treat infections and wounds in the early 20th century. Dame Mary Russell, Duchess of Bedford, converted part of Woburn Abbey into a military hospital during the First World War. Photographed by Bedford Lemere and Co in July 1915
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 7614135
© Historic England
Medical Military War Time Ww 1
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> England at War
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> Bedford Lemere Collection (1860s-1944)
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> The way we were
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> Before the NHS
Open air ward BL23137 - A Glimpse into the Healing Power of Nature during WW1
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This photo print, captured by H Bedford Lemere in July 1915, transports us back to a significant moment in history - the First World War. Within the serene grounds of Woburn Abbey, Bedfordshire, lies an open-air isolation ward within a military hospital. Here, injured soldiers find solace and healing amidst nature's embrace. In this poignant image, we witness brave soldiers lying in beds arranged under the vast sky. Open-air treatment was a revolutionary approach used to combat infections and wounds during this era. The fresh air and sunlight were believed to possess remarkable restorative properties for both body and spirit. Dame Mary Russell, Duchess of Bedford, played an instrumental role in converting part of Woburn Abbey into this sanctuary for wounded warriors. Her compassionate vision provided these heroes with not only medical care but also a tranquil environment that offered respite from the horrors of war. Bedford Lemere's lens captures not just physical injuries but also resilience and hope etched on each soldier's face. This photograph serves as a testament to their unwavering courage amid adversity. As we reflect upon this historical artifact today, let us honor those who sacrificed so much for our freedom while acknowledging how far medical advancements have come since then. May their stories inspire future generations to cherish peace and value the healing power found within nature itself.
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