About Prince Henry

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Prince Henry Hospital – An historical timeline 1881–2003

1881

Little Bay was chosen for its isolation and wonderful coastal location for the NSW government’s first public hospital. It was known as ‘the Coast Hospital’ for more than 50 years.

1913

The heritage Flowers Wards were commissioned by the NSW government. They were named after Fred Flowers, the first NSW minister for public health. Flowers Ward one is now a Nursing and Medical museum.

1919

The first steam tram travelled from Bridge Street, in Sydney city, to Little Bay. Before the steam tram, horse and cart was the only mode of transport to deliver patients to the hospital.

1920

Prince Henry became the largest hospital in NSW.

1934

The Coast Hospital was renamed Prince Henry Hospital to mark the visit of Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester. A year later, the hospital’s capacity reached 1,000 beds.

1960

Prince Henry became a teaching hospital and training facility for doctors and nurses. Many of today’s health care professionals saw their first practical experience at Prince Henry Hospital.

1965

Prince Henry surgeons performed the world’s first kidney transplant.

1969

Artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude wrapped Little Bay’s cliffs in huge quantities of white plastic, with many kilometres of rope used to secure the plastic.

1988

A decision was made to consolidate Prince Henry and Prince of Wales Hospitals.

2003

The last remaining wards closed following the decision in 1988 to consolidate Prince Henry and Prince of Wales Hospitals.

To read in more detail a history of Prince Henry Hospital developed by Dr Barbara Newman, go to the Nursing and Medical Museum page.

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About Prince Henry

Prince Henry Hospital – An historical timeline 1881–2003

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