Mrs Mary Holmes and a Belgian patient
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Mrs Mary Holmes and a Belgian patient
Mrs Mary Holmes (Lady Superintendent) and an unknown Belgian patient standing outside the Winter Garden, Quex Park. The Quex Park VAD Hospital opened on 15 October 1914 and closed on 31 January 1919. The hospital was run by Kent/178, the Birchington Detachment. The Commandant was Hannah Powell-Cotton (1881-1964), wife of Major Percy HG Powell-Cotton (1866-1940) of Quex Park, founder of the Powell-Cotton Museum. Date: 1915
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Media ID 14244859
© The Powell-Cotton Museum Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
1866 1881 1964 Belgian Birchington Closed Commandant Cotton Detachment Founder Hannah Holmes Major Opened Patient Percy Powell Quex Superintendent Unknown 1919 January
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative photograph, taken in 1915, Lady Superintendent Mary Holmes stands with a Belgian patient in the tranquil setting of the Winter Garden at Quex Park. The Quex Park Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) Hospital, run by Kent/178, the Birchington Detachment, had opened just a year prior, on October 15, 1914. The Commandant of the hospital was Hannah Powell-Cotton, wife of Major Percy HG Powell-Cotton, who was the founder of the Powell-Cotton Museum located at Quex Park. The First World War was in full swing, and the hospital provided much-needed care to wounded soldiers and civilians, with the patient in this image likely being one of the many Belgian refugees who had fled their country during the conflict. The Winter Garden, with its lush greenery and serene atmosphere, offered a brief respite from the harsh realities of the war. Mary Holmes, a dedicated and compassionate nurse, is seen here in her element, providing comfort and care to her patient. Her attire, consisting of a white blouse and a long, dark skirt, is typical of the nursing uniforms of the time. The patient, dressed in a simple, shapeless gown, appears to be in a state of relaxation, perhaps momentarily forgetting the pain and turmoil that had brought them to the hospital. The photograph captures the essence of the human spirit, as both Mary and the patient find solace in each other's company amidst the chaos of war. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the selfless acts of kindness and compassion that were so prevalent during this tumultuous period in history. Quex Park VAD Hospital closed its doors on January 31, 1919, marking the end of an era for the patients, staff, and volunteers who had dedicated themselves to the cause of healing and recovery. This photograph stands as a testament to their efforts and the enduring power of human connection.
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