Industrial Revolution 1750-1900

Mary Seacole (1805-81)

Nursing in the mid-19th century
was not a well regarded
occupation as nurses were
generally uneducated and poorly
trained. Elizabeth Fry, a well-
known prison reformer, set up the
first nursing school in Britain in
1840. Nursing gradually began to
gain in status by the second half
of the 19th century. During the
Crimean War, nurses for the first
time were allowed to work for the
army. Among them were two Treatment of Wounded in Crimean War
pioneers, Mary Seacole and
Florence Nightingale.

Who was Mary Seacole?

Seacole was born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1805. She helped in her mother's
boarding house caring for invalid soldiers. In 1854 Seacole decided to come
to England and approached the war office to ask to be sent as an army nurse
to the Crimea. Unfortunately, she was rejected due to racial prejudice, so
instead she made her own way there and set up a medical store and hostel
near Balaclava.

What was Seacole famous for?

Seacole became famous for her work in the Crimea among the troops. On the
battlefield she nursed the wounded and was known by the name of 'Mother
Seacole'. Even though she met Florence Nightingale, she was not invited to
join her nursing team. When she returned to England in 1856, she was not
recognised for the work and achievements in the Crimea and after suffering
from bankruptcy she decided to publish her life story to raise money.

How important was Seacole?

In comparison to Florence Nightingale, Seacole did not come from a wealthy
middle class background or have any formal training. Not only did she suffer
from the restrictions placed on women at this time but she was also hindered
in her nursing career by the colour of her skin. Despite these prejudices, she
established herself as an inspirational figure for other women to follow and
also for black people in general. Sadly, Mary Seacole, like many important
black historical figures never received the recognition she deserved.