The Watford Observer is again delighted to be teaming up with its friends at Watford Museum to take another journey back to the past to recall the key events and dates that helped shape the town’s future.

The 21st part of '50 events and dates that shaped Watford' looks back when an appeal was launched to build a new hospital for the town - the Peace Memorial.

The museum's volunteer archivist Christine Orchard said: "Fund raising for the Watford and District Peace Memorial Hospital began towards the end of 1918. The intention was to provide a minimum of 100 beds with capacity to expand. It was estimated that £50,000 would be needed to complete the project.

"Therefore, a public appeal was launched by the executive committee headed by the Earl of Clarendon. Adverts were placed in the Watford Observer and stated that “every penny is of value for this voluntary effort”, but those giving £250 would be entitled to name a cot, and £500 to name a bed.

Harrow Times:

The appeal in the Watford Observer on December 21, 1918

"Funds were also raised by subscription and in July 1923, the foundation stone was laid by Lord Clarendon. The hospital was opened by Princess Mary in June 1925 and patients transferred from the district hospital in Vicarage Road."

Harrow Times:

The hospital site in 1987. Picture: Bob Nunn Collection

Watford Museum is open Thursday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. No booking is necessary but Covid prevention measures are still in place to keep visitors safe.