In April 1900, a philanthropic initiative was undertaken by Mr. Thomas Henry Cleeve, J.P., who was at the time the High Sheriff of Limerick. Leveraging his position and influence, Mr. Cleeve donated a substantial sum of £500 to Lady Arnott, who would act as the steward for these funds. The purpose of Mr. Cleeve’s generous donation was to kickstart a fundraising campaign for establishing a dedicated bed in multiple Irish hospitals.
This bed would be named the Queen Victoria Cot, paying homage to the reigning British monarch at the time, Queen Victoria. The naming of the cot exemplified the gratitude and respect for the Queen’s long rule, while simultaneously highlighting the importance of improving healthcare services in Ireland.
The Queen Victoria Cot initiative aimed to serve as a reminder of the nobility’s commitment to providing aid and support for the communities they governed, particularly in healthcare during a time when medical assistance was not easily accessible to everyone.
Ultimately, the donation by Mr. Thomas Henry Cleeve and others who followed his lead showcased a significant effort towards addressing healthcare challenges in Ireland during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The establishment of the Queen Victoria Cot reflected a growing awareness of the need for better medical facilities and was an important step in enhancing the quality of healthcare in Irish hospitals.
Manchester Courier – Wednesday 04 April 1900
