Did you know that hidden away in Fremantle Hospital lies the Fremantle Hospital Museum, preserving the facility’s medical history dating back to 1897? Located in the old Hyperbaric Medicine Unit, this carefully curated museum is packed with unexpected artefacts that tell the stories of medicine before modern medical technology. Be sure to expect plenty of conversation as you weave through the rich history of historical photographs, medical instruments, nursing uniforms and written records!
What we love:
Step back in time as you get up-close to the historical collections of surgical instruments, diagnostic equipment and pharmacy items used in the hospital.
See the old operating room set-up and learn about the old anaesthetic instruments and appliances.
The old handwritten board minutes and records are still carefully preserved, showing how the hospital dealt with previous outbreaks like typhoid, measles, and even the Spanish Flu!
Marvel and get inside the retired hyperbaric chambers “George” and “Mildred”- these served as the vital Hyperbaric Medicine Unit in the hospital, often used for decompression sickness and serious infections, providing support and services for divers in all of WA and clinical services to residents for many decades.
Learn all about the nursing uniforms and see how they have changed over time in Fremantle Hospital.
Get to know the interesting stories of key people from Fremantle Hospital, such as Sister Mavis Fuller.
Wander through the old tea room and reception and discover the array of historical photographs of Fremantle Hospital, their nurses, and personal collections.
We even saw the Nightingale Brick, which came from Florence Nightingale’s home.
Children get to feel how vintage machines work, such as typewriters and telephones.
Founded by Ruth Letts, who trained as a nurse at Fremantle Hospital in 1973 and returned to set up the museum after her retirement, the museum is currently run solely by volunteers, who sort and catalogue the many hundreds of items in the collection. We met the lovely ex-nurses who worked at the hospital, who shared stories about the hospital with us as we toured the museum, and they were always so friendly and helpful with all the kids’ questions.
It took us about an hour to finish exploring the museum. Kids over 6 years old would better enjoy and appreciate the museum, as some exhibits might be confronting for younger toddlers.
Entry to this museum is free, as it is run by volunteers only; it is best to call them on 9431 3333 before going to check current opening times. The closest parking is located at the N block gate 6 of Fremantle Hospital.
Fremantle Hospital Museum
Fremantle Hospital
Alma Street, Fremantle, WA 6160
Opening time:
Monday and Wednesday: 1030 – 1630
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Mum of two girls and working as a registered nurse. Originally from Singapore, I have spent the last 17 years in Perth where I raised my beautiful girls. After being a mum, I find passion in exploring new places and doing new activities with my kids. Besides mummy duties, I find joy in pretty dresses and books.
