1851: Appeal for Foundation of Hospital for Sick Children

Great Ormond Street Hospital was founded as the Hospital for Sick Children in 1852. It was the first hospital in England for children in-patients. The hospital was opened following a lengthy campaign by Dr Charles West, then physician at the Universal Dispensary for Children in Waterloo Road. It was opened in 1852 at 49 Great Ormond Street with 10 beds.

From its early years, the Hospital benefitted from high profile supporters including renowned author Charles Dickens. Dickens spoke at several dinners and functions for the Hospital, and held readings of his most famous works in aid of the Hospital. The Hospital also had members of the royal family as Presidents and Patrons of the hospital.

Reproduction of front page of a report. The page is black text on a white background. The page reads: "Hospital for Sick Children, Great Ormond Street, Queen Square. Report of proceedings at a public meeting held to promote the foundation of a Children's Hospital, at the Hanover-Square Rooms, March 18th, 1851. The Right Honourable Lord Ashley, MP, in the Chair."
Front page of a report on a meeting about the establishment of the hospital. Image courtesy of Great Ormond Street Hospital
Cover of printed speech given by Charles Dickens for the Hospital for Sick Children. The speech was given in 1858. It was printed and bound in 1874. This image of the front cover of the printed speech reads "Speech of Charles Dickens, esquire, as Chairman at the dinner on behalf of the Hospital for Sick Children, February 9th, 1858." End of text. The border of the page has a floral design.
Cover of printed speech given by Charles Dickens for the Hospital for Sick Children. Image courtesy of Great Ormond Street Hospital