Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > Bedfordshire > Bedford
Open air ward BL23137
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
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Bedfordshire
> Bedford
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Bedfordshire
> Woburn
> Historic England
> England at War
> England at War 1914-1918
> Historic England
> Historic Images
> Famed Photographers
> Bedford Lemere Collection (1860s-1944)
> Historic England
> Historic Images
> Historic Images 1920s to 1940s
> Photos from the Great War
> Historic England
> The way we were
> Healthcare
> Before the NHS
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Soldiers
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.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
