Oakwood Hall Hospital Destroyed By fire

  At times the men's spirits were reported to be high indulging in pillow fights which was so rowdy that shirts, pyjamas and socks suffered. Outings and entertainment or music nights were organised where luxuries like chocolate and cake would be given to patients. The men were never without some amusement to break the monotony of hospital life. A piano was bought at a cost of £2 and it was reported to be in fine working order. They also had a good and active cricket team and with thanks to Mr. Spencer a well-known cricketer buying the bats etc  under his supervision the cricket team won many matches. As the men felt better they would do light work around the hospital like gardening and washing pots.

On a windy Saturday afternoon on the 22nd June 1918 Oakwood Hall Hospital was destroyed by fire. The staff and 100 recuperating wondered soldiers were all evacuated safely. The soldiers made heroic attempts to save some of the hospital furniture and equipment while the horse drawn fire engine made it's way from Swallownest. The following morning all the patients were removed to Moorgate and the General Hospital on Doncaster Road. The patients that were badly injured   were removed to the Base Hospital at Sheffield. Within a few days Oakwood Hall continued to nurse soldiers in marquees or open-air wards.

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© Neil and Janet Croft 2005