where was waymouth military hospital waymouth located in 1917 map

Lussy04

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22-01-2025

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Finding the precise location of Weymouth Military Hospital in 1917 requires a bit of historical detective work. Unfortunately, a single, readily available map showing its exact boundaries isn't easily accessible online. However, by combining historical records and contemporary maps, we can get a good approximation.

Understanding the Challenges

Several factors complicate pinpointing the hospital's location:

• Evolving Boundaries: Military hospitals, particularly during wartime, often expanded and contracted based on need. Their footprint in 1917 might differ from later maps.
• Map Accuracy: Maps from 1917 had lower resolution and accuracy compared to modern GIS data.
• Record Availability: Not all historical records are digitized or easily searchable.

Utilizing Available Resources

To locate Weymouth Military Hospital in 1917, we need to combine different sources:

1. Historical Records: Search local archives (Dorset County Archives would be a good starting point) for records related to the hospital. These might include:

• Hospital admission registers: These could contain addresses or descriptions of the hospital's location.
• Building plans or blueprints: These offer detailed architectural information, sometimes including location details.
• Photographs: Old photographs might show the hospital's exterior and surrounding area, aiding in identification on a contemporary map.
• Newspaper articles: Local newspapers from 1917 could mention the hospital's location in passing.

2. 1917 Maps of Weymouth: Explore online archives like the National Library of Scotland or the British Library for digitized maps of Weymouth from around 1917. Look for hospitals or large institutions near the town center. The area around the harbour and the major roads is a good place to start.

3. Contemporary Maps and GIS Data: While not directly showing the hospital in 1917, modern maps can be overlaid with information gleaned from historical sources. This can help to narrow down the location. Modern street names might not perfectly align with 1917 names, requiring careful cross-referencing.

4. Oral Histories: If possible, explore local oral history projects. Individuals with family connections to the hospital or residents of Weymouth during that time may possess valuable anecdotal evidence.

Likely Areas

Based on general knowledge of wartime hospital locations, it's plausible that the hospital was situated:

• Near transport links: Hospitals during WWI often needed good access to railways or roads for transporting patients and supplies.
• Relatively large area: A military hospital would require considerable space for wards, administration, and other facilities.
• Areas with existing buildings: Existing large buildings, like hotels or schools, could have been requisitioned for use as hospitals.

Conclusion

Pinpointing the exact location of Weymouth Military Hospital on a 1917 map requires dedicated research using a combination of primary and secondary sources. By combining historical records, contemporary maps, and potentially local oral histories, researchers can improve their chances of identifying its location. The process might be time-consuming but is ultimately rewarding for anyone interested in military history or local heritage. Remember to always cite your sources when engaging in historical research.