Taken in August 1987, one of a series of photos showing the old Friarage Manor House which had been encased in the hospital.

Showing interior walls

Possibly taken prior to 1955 as Cameron Hospital at that time became the centre for maternity. Please, any former staff put us right if that is incorrect !

This could be the time when the fundraising play took place also.

The  reverse reads ' Hartlepool Hospital Fundraising Play Bluebeard's Eighth Wife'. Presumably this is set on a stage behind the hospital ? Are these the windows of the rear of St Hilda's Hospital ?

The image is undated but by the fashions is possibly in the 1930s.

Nurses and staff at St. Hilda's Hospital, 1978.

On 21st July, 1984, St Hilda’s Hospital, Hartlepool, closed its doors thus ending a prestigious history of service to the people of Hartlepool.

The Hospital, situated on the Headland, was founded over 700 years ago. A Friary is recorded prior to 1258 where Franciscans treated the sick in both the Friary and their own homes.

The Friary was dissolved by Henry VIII in 1546 and the Manor House, also known as the Friary, was built in 1605. During the early years of the Poor Laws, the Friary was used as a workhouse and also cared for sudden illnesses in the town.

In 1865, thanks to a charity grant and the generosity of local townspeople, the premises were adapted for use as a free hospital, with accommodation for 12 beds.

On 16 December, 1914, Hartlepool hospital narrowly escaped destruction as shells fell nearby. Over 40 serious operations were performed that day, including many amputations.

The hospital was gradually extended and in 1917, HRH Princess Mary opened the Morison Memorial Wing, which increased accommodation by 30 beds.

In 1948, the new National Health Service inherited “a model institution equipped with the latest appliances and staffed by highly qualified personnel” It subsequently became the centre for the treatment of accidents in the town, before its closure in 1984.     

St Hilda's Hospital was previously known as Hartlepools' Hospital. It's name was changed in 1967. It is thought that this image shows the rear of the building. Much was added to it over the years.

Taken in 1942, Clara Grace Flanders is the nurse

St Hilda's Hospital 1970

St Hilda's Hospital 

Carnival Procession time going past St Hilda's Hospital which was to close within a year. This was the main entrance where ambulances would discharge A and E patients until the service was moved to the General Hospital and subsequently North Tees General A and E department.

Picture of a ward at St Hilda's Hospital. No date. Four nurses and a specialist(?) in picture.