Tributes paid to Sister Dora in Walsall
Walsall has come together to commemorate the life and work of a well-known nurse.
Sister Dora, born Dorothy Wyndlow Pattison, came to the borough in the 1860s and left and gained a reputation for her kind and caring nature.
Despite being from Yorkshire, she was adopted by townspeople following a series of disasters where she nursed those in need.
An annual tribute was held at St Paul's Church, Darwall Street, on the Sunday before her birthday – January 16, 1832 –to recognise her work.
Wreaths were laid at The Bridge, where Sister Dora's statue is, as the borough paid tribute.
Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Paul Bott, attended with Mayoress Christine Bott.
Councillor Bott said: "Sister Dora’s work in Walsall during the 1860s and 1870s was pioneering.
"She was a gifted and visionary nurse and very much ahead of her time.
"Sister Dora helped develop a template for the modern and effective nursing methods that exist in this country, today.
"We will continue honour her contribution to the world of nursing and give thanks for the inspirational care and tireless service she once gave to the borough Walsall."
Sister Dora looked after relatives of the victims of the Pelsall mining disaster in 1872 – which 22 men and boys were killed, and 13 survived.
Thousands of people lined Bridge Street in 1878 to pay their respects to her after her death.
