Collection
Adopt an object
The Museum of Anaesthesia is launching an Adopt an object campaign to raise funds for a commemorative plaque for pioneer anaesthetist Sir Ivan Magill.
In his long career, Magill introduced techniques and designed tools that are still around today, many decades later. In the 1930s, he was also instrumental in setting up the Diploma in Anaesthetics – the first formal qualification for anaesthetists in the United Kingdom – which raised the specialty’s status in the medical world.
You can read more about Magill's remarkable life and work in his oral history here.
Join our mission and adopt an object or make a one-off donation to support this worthy cause! Find out more here.
Oral histories
The Museum of Anaesthesia has been collecting oral histories from notable anaesthetists for several years.
We have interviewed several military anaesthetists for the World War One exhibitions. Doctors who served in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan have taken part and discussed their experiences and the developments in patient care they were involved in.
To view the interviews please click here.
If you would like a transcription of any interview, please contact us.
Films
In 1944, Westminster Hospital produced a series of training films for anaesthetists, covering subjects including chloroform & ether anaesthesia, handling & care of the patient, and a step-by-step epidural technique.
To view the films please click here
COVID-19 Contemporary Collecting
Contemporary collecting is defined as the collecting of objects, stories and material culture that reflect the recent past and what is happening today. The museum is preparing to tell the story of the COVID-19 pandemic through the voices of anaesthetists, intensivists and patients, and by collecting anaesthetic equipment which was critical to patient care and safety. Find out more.