“This was the entrance to St Lawrence’s Hospital” the plaque proclaims. A simple statement yet it holds a world of stories. This unassuming blue plaque marks the spot where St Lawrence’s Hospital once stood. It’s a reminder of a place that served the insane poor of South London for over a century.
The Metropolitan Asylum as it was originally known opened its doors in 1870. It provided care for those deemed mentally ill. Many of these patients came from workhouses. Imagine the lives of those individuals who passed through these gates. They were the forgotten souls of Victorian society.
The plaque itself was unveiled in 2017. The unveiling ceremony was attended by many. Local councillors were present along with former hospital staff and their families. Mick Burnell a Caterham resident whose family had ties to the hospital for generations unveiled the plaque. His family’s history is intertwined with the hospital’s. It’s a living testament to the lasting impact of St Lawrence’s on the local community.
The hospital’s legacy extends beyond its physical presence. The names of roads in the former hospital site remember its existence. The development of Caterham-on-the-Hill itself was shaped by the hospital. The massive Victorian buildings dominated the landscape. They significantly impacted the lives of those who lived nearby.
By 1994 great changes had occurred. Mental health care had advanced considerably. Former patients gained greater independence. Many were able to live more fulfilling lives within the community. St Lawrence’s Hospital closed its doors ending an era. But the memory of those who lived and worked there lives on.
This plaque serves as a poignant reminder. It honours those who sought solace and care within its walls. It also acknowledges the staff who dedicated their lives to serving others. St Lawrence’s Hospital may be gone but its legacy endures. It’s etched into the very fabric of Caterham-on-the-Hill. The plaque ensures that the hospital’s story continues to be told. It allows us to remember and reflect upon the past.