Tent Hospital Site

Child Places

• 05495 Three Grave Sites

Statement of Significance

The site of the Old Tent Hospital has considerable historic significance given the essential role the hospital played for the Yalgoo community of the time.

Physical Description

The site of the old tent hospital is opposite the Dominican Convent Chapel.

History

The original tent hospital was a simple canvas structure. In 1896 the tent which functioned as the post office was relocated to the hospital site for use there as additional accommodation, following the construction of a new post office. (Geraldton Express & Murchison & Yalgoo Goldfields Chronicler, 7 February, 1896, p.8) A newspaper of the time said: "The hospital, which is of premier importance, is situated at the end of town, and is under the able management of Dr Lawson. There are a number of patients in the hospital, which is simply a canvas structure. The Government will no doubt entertain proposals for the erection of a permanent building. Unfortunately, several deaths have occurred, the same as would be the case in similar institutions, beyond medical control; nevertheless, Dr. Lawson has done, and is still doing, his level best for the recovery of his patients." (8 May, 1896, p.8) Further, "It is pleasant to be able to state the Yalgoo Hospital is an institution, which is excellently conducted, being kept severely clean and one where every attention is paid to the unfortunate sufferers, who may be compelled to sojourn there." (4 September, 1896, p.7) John O'Brien, the resident tentmaker in Yalgoo, laid out and constructed the hospital "over the hill behind the mine and the present convent, prior to the town being surveyed and gazetted", which occurred on 24 January, 1892. (Greenough Sun, 8 December, 1955, p.l) Alex Palmer describes the location of the first tent hospital as being "on the hill behind the townsite," (p. 12) and "opposite the convent" (p43). On 7 April, 1900 the Tent Hospital closed. (Minutes of Hospital Committee & Miners' Institute, p75)

Condition

Site only

Uses

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.