Janet Williamson facts for kids
Janet Wyse Mackie Williamson (born 26 September 1862 – died 12 March 1936) was a brave nurse from Otago, New Zealand. She served as a nurse during the Boer War in South Africa. She was also the very first person in New Zealand to receive a special award called the Royal Red Cross for her excellent nursing work.
Early Life and Training
Janet Williamson was born in Dunedin, New Zealand. Her parents were Jane Sangster Waters and John Mackie Williamson. Her family owned land, and her father was a leader in their local church.
In 1890, Janet began her nursing training at Dunedin Hospital. She studied for three years and became a qualified nurse in 1893.
Nursing Career and War Service
In 1899, Janet was one of only nine nurses chosen to go to the Boer War in South Africa. Fifty nurses had applied for this important job! Janet was made the leader of this group of nurses.
They left New Zealand on a ship called the Talune and arrived in Cape Town on 5 April 1900. The nurses first went to Wyneburgh. Then, they moved to a big hospital called No. 10 General Hospital in Bloemfontein. Janet was put in charge of this hospital, which was a very important role.
The nurses stayed and worked at this hospital for 17 months. Janet left South Africa on a troop ship in September 1901.
Awards and Recognition
In 1901, Janet Williamson received the Royal Red Cross. This is a special award given for excellent military nursing. King Edward VII himself presented her with the award later that year! She also received another award called the Queen's South Africa Medal.
After returning to New Zealand, Janet became the head nurse (called Matron) at Nelson Hospital. However, she had to leave in 1903 because she wasn't feeling well. She moved back to Dunedin and worked as a private nurse for people in their homes.
In 1907, Janet helped start a group called the Dunedin Trained Nurses' Club. In 1914, she was invited to meet with James Allen, who was the Minister of Defence. She asked him to create a special nursing service for nurses who wanted to work overseas.
Later Life
Janet Williamson passed away in Dunedin on 12 March 1936. She is buried in the Dunedin Southern Cemetery.
