Wellcome Library - lookup of ISTM records for Masseuses please

[alf mcm]

I would really appreciate if anyone who has access to, or copies of, the records of the ISTM [incorporated Institute of Trained Masseuses] at the Wellcome Library could look up the record for Minnie Mair. I would also like to know of any other Masseuses mentioned in the records who served at Edinburgh War Hospital, Bangour.

Regards,

Alf McM

[seaJane]

Dear Alf,

I've searched the online catalogue at archives.wellcome.org and the ISTM's papers are included in ref SA/CSP, the 204+ box collection of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists. Under the circumstances the Wellcome's archivist might be the best approach! I've always found her most helpful.

archs+mss[at]wellcome[dot]ac[dot]uk

using @ and . where indicated.

[alf mcm]

Thanks Jane,

I'll contact the Archivist, and see what turns up.

Regards,

Alf

[alf mcm]

I have contacted the Wellcome Library, and got a very nice reply. Unfortunately, they are unable to help me due to the current volume of enquiries. I can understand this, since it is a highly renowned library. They suggested I could visit if in London, or I could hire a private researcher. The first is impracticable, and the second is financially not possible. My only hope is that a kind forum member could have a look for me. Well, if you don't ask, you don't get!

Seriously, I would appreciate any information anyone can find on Minnie Mair's massage career, and any of the Masseuses at Bangour.

Regards,

Alf McM

[seaJane]

OK Alf, if I get the time next time I am in London - but don't hold your breath!

If anyone else is going to be there please let us know...

[alf mcm]

Jane,

If you could manage, that would be great, but there's no hurry.

Regards,

Alf

[Denmags]

Hello,

Perhaps you know this already: West Lothian Libraries has a book, " Report of Bangour Village 1914-1923". It says the masseuses were paid direct by the War Office and were all members of the Almeric Paget Military Massage Corps, later Military Massage Service. They lived at Middleton Hall, Uphall and were transported daily to the hospital by a horse-drawn wagonette. This proved unsatisfactory - maybe a bit of a bumpy ride! - and a motor wagonette was later used.

Mags

[alf mcm]

Thanks Mags,

Yes, I do know the book, I've read it a few times!. I think it was this that alerted me to the fact that Bangour had Masseuses. Apparently there were up to 30 Masseuses working at Bangour, although Im not sure if that was in total, or all at one time.Middleton Hall is still there, now used as a care home.

Regards,

Alf

[Denmags]

Hello,

I live in Broxburn so know Middleton Hall. The book says "as required" so I suppose it depended on injuries etc.

Have met you before through WLFHS - i am the one who researched the Kirknewton Memorial.

Mags

[alf mcm]

I remember you Mags. This forum is a great place for anything regarding the Great War.

Regards,

Alf