The Old Operating Theatre, Museum & Herb Garret

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Newsletter - August 2006

NEWS

VICTORIAN SURGERY

A programme of events has been arranged for the summer period. Full details can be found on the Events page.

The museum will also be opening until 7pm on Thursdays throughout the summer.

SUSAN ALDWORTH ART EXHIBITION RE-OPENS THE GARRET

In celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the rediscovery of the oldest operating theatre in Europe, artist Susan Aldworth shows works from "Matter Into Imagination" in the newly restored attic of St Thomas' Church. The works, including Belina Crumb, "London's Smallest Woman" (pictured) are on display until September 2006.

MUSEUM COLLECTION

The museum recently purchased a 1930s wooden leg, and is currently seeking funding to provide a case to display this new addition to the collection

50TH ANNIVERSARY - THE HOUSE OF HEALING

In 1956, following research on the the history of Old St Thomas's Hospital, Raymond Russell rediscovered the 19th century Operating Theatre for women. An article by Russell on the important find was published
in Guy's Hospital Reports in 1957, and the theatre was subsequently restored and opened as a museum. This was largely due to the dedication and perseverance of renowned heart surgeon, Lord Russell Brock, and the charity which runs the museum is named after him in recognition of his efforts. In 2006, the museum commemorates this historic discovery.

PRESS

The museum received very favourable press on its re-opening, in particular a 2 page article in "Museums & Heritage" magazine, and a forthcoming spread in "Museums Journal" (August issue).

LECTURE PROGRAMME

From October 2006, the museum will be celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special programme of events. Guest lecturers will contribute talks on a variety of subjects, covering the history of surgery, anaesthesia and medicine. Further details of these events will be announced shortly on the House Of Healing pages.