Feminist efforts of a group of women doctors and philanthropists culminated in the opening of the Manchester Babies’ Hospital in August 1914. The hospital rapidly expanded to provide surgical facilities for newborns, open air treatments and community education.
Catherine Chisholm and the Manchester Babies’ Hospital
Catherine Chisholm was instrumental in founding the Manchester Babies’ Hospital where she pioneered medical care for newborns. There was a breastmilk bank and health education for women and girls. In 1936, the hospital was renamed the Duchess of York Hospital for Babies.
The first female medical graduate of The University of Manchester, Chisholm developed opportunities for women in medicine, through university education and work experience in hospitals.
Chisholm used scientific research to drive real improvements in community health. Her research on rickets in Manchester identified various causes, but Chisholm focused on empowering mothers to ‘prevent or overcome this disease’ through better diet and fresh air.
Ref. Guthrie Papers
Manuscript Curator and Archivist, Elizabeth Gow, reveals how Catherine Chisholm overcame resistance to open up opportunities for women doctors.