Eastern Hospitals and English Nurses (Volumes 1 & 2 in one special edition) by A Lady Volunteer AND Memories of the Crimea by Sister Mary Aloysius
Two accounts of Nurses during the war with Russia in the Crimea, 1853-6
The principal book of this edition, partially written during the conflict and anonymously, was published originally in 1856. It appeared in two volumes. This narrative was, in fact, one of the first accounts to reach the public to describe these incredible women and their achievements. Both original volumes have been combined for this book and appear together with a shorter work written by another volunteer nurse of the period . As a consequence of the fame of their inspirational leader, Florence Nightingale, the services of the pioneering women who travelled to the theatre of war to tend to wounded and sick soldiers (who otherwise would have received scant medical attention) is now well known. However, at the time very few people were aware of the activities of these women. So the author, who was in reality twenty four year old, Frances Margaret (Fanny) Taylor, has left for posterity a fine, memorable and detailed account of their trials and self-sacrifice. This resolute band's labours in the hospitals at Scutari, Koulali and Balaclava starkly bring to life the realities of mid-nineteenth century medical conditions for British troops. The second work of nursing in the Crimea was written by an Irish nun in her later years, following her award of the 'Royal Red Cross' by Queen Victoria. This award, created in 1883, was instigated by the queen after she learned that many British Army Nurses had died (sometimes on active service) having received no official recognition .
Leonaur editions are newly typeset and are not facsimiles; each title is available in softcover and hardback with dustjacket.