Inspired by the news that in mid June Ruthin Castle Hotel will open ‘The Moat’ a new health club and spa, Denbighshire Archives Service are running an exhibition at Ruthin Gaol which looks at a certain chapter at the long history of the Castle.
The display highlights the period from 1923 to 1962 when the Castle was a private hospital for the ‘scientific investigation and treatment of illness, and for the maintenance of health in those who had no disease’. The first institute of this kind was opened at Duff House, Banff, Scotland. Following the success of this clinic, Ruthin Castle was bought along with grounds which included 475 acres. It opened to receive patients in April 1923, renamed Duff House.
The exhibition includes postcard images of the Castle from the 1920’s and 1930’s and a photograph of the nursing staff. Also featured are a couple of plans which show the extent of the patients’ rooms and other facilities inside the clinic and the Castle grounds which included an 18 hole putting course and lawn tennis courts.
Also featured is a diary written by a nurse who worked at Ruthin Castle clinic. These extracts although brief give us a view of the workings of the clinic and are also an interesting glimpse into everyday life at this time.
Available to view during our opening times, Tues-Fri (9.30-4.30)
