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It is with mixed emotions that I write this foreword regarding the Foxton Maternity Home, the staff and it's subsequent closure. My wife, having produced three sons would be better qualified than I to outline the sterling work and the dedication to duty of the staff.

Names such as Phyl Lash, Barbara Vivian, Sister Cohr, Howard Teppett, Bill Malthus. Ludwig Beider and Hettie Skellen bring up many pleasant memories, it is good to be jolted back to that time.

Mrs D.R.Barron the then Secretary of the local Plunket Society was the instigator of the move to get such an amenity up and running. She perservered and finally there was a committee formed and action was taken to work on the idea. After several meetings, much activity and suggestions, the Hospital Board was approached and persuaded that it would be a valued amenity in the township.

It was originally intended that the Home would be built on the land on the north side of Lady's Mile, however the proposal to build a College on the site meant the committee would have to look elsewhere. As luck would have it the home of Mrs. Symon came on the market, (This was snapped up and after subsequent alterations were made, it was the new Foxton Maternity Home.)

From the time it was opened in 1942, in excess of 4200 births were recorded until in 1981 the Hospital Board id it's wisdom decided that a closer look should be taken of the economics associated with the running of the Home. Finally, at their A.G.M. a motion was moved that, "The Foxton Maternity Unit should be closed" as it was no longer a viable proposition.

This produced an uproar in the community. Throughout 1981/82 steps were taken to get the decision rescinded, a petition against the move was signed by 1000 citizens and presented to the Board. Sadly, however, they remained adamant and the closure, on 24th December 1982, saw the doors being shut for the last time.

I would like to congratulate Fran Ellis on her decision to publish a book recording the history of the Home. Such dedication is all too rare in this day and age.

Photos:

Foxton Maternity Home 1942-1982 Page 2 Mark Perreau Foxton Maternity Home 1942-1982 Page 2 Neal Hunt Foxton Maternity Home 1942-1982 Page 2 Jim Titcombe

Mr Mark Perreau

Foxton Mayor during the time of
establishing Foxton Maternity
Home

Mr D N Hunt (Neal)

Foxton Mayor (1978-80) and
secretary of Foxton Maternity Home
Action Committee

Mr J L Titcombe (Jim)

Foxton Mayor and Chairman of
Foxton Maternity Home
Action Cornmittee

Identification

Object type
Multi-Page Document
Date
2005

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