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250 Years of Norfolk & Norwich Hospital

Past, Present & Future: A Special Exhibition

Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the Norfolk & Norwich Hospital with this special exhibition.

As part of Norfolk Heritage Open Days 2022, a special exhibition at The Forum showcased the transformation of our local hospital: from 1772, when it saw its first patients, to the present-day, and the future ambitions of the organisation. With medical artefacts, including an old X-ray machine and operating table, fascinating tales of medical innovation, and captivating talks from hospital professionals, the event offered a glimpse into the evolution of health and therapy. 

Before the hospital opened, local residents were dependent on leeches and homemade cures. Now, 250 years later, staff in theatres use minimally invasive high-tech robotic surgery.

The exhibition explored the history of our local hospital, which has been part of our community for over two centuries; and at the centre of so many lives. Rarely seen objects were retrieved from the hospital archive, including tools, uniforms, and much more. 

Medical artifacts from the Norfolk & Norwich Hospital archive

The Norfolk & Norwich Hospital was first founded as a charitable organisation in 1772, before becoming an NHS hospital in 1948. Based on St Stephen's Road for much of the 20th century, the new millennium saw the hospital moving to its current site on the Norwich Research Park. The Norfolk & Norwich Hospital has been caring for the people of the region for 250 years. 

Staff lining up to greet Princess Margaret in 1952

The exhibition took place Friday 9 - Sun 18 September 2022.

Supported by The Forum