FREE PUBLIC MEETING

Where

Wednesday 18 June, 7:30 PM – Judge Lecture Hall, Tiffin School, Kingston upon Thames KT2 6RL

What

Community Events

When

18 Jun 2025

UNTIL Wednesday 18 June

FREE PUBLIC MEETING

The Debate on Vaccination Is Not New — And Kingston Has Its Own Little-Known Chapter!

In the late 19th century, Kingston upon Thames was at the heart of the national debate on vaccination. In 1867, the Kingston Guardians of the Poor took legal action against parents who refused smallpox vaccination for their children. By 1872, official concern was raised when 688 out of 4,379 local children born in the previous two years remained unvaccinated. Anti-vaccination society meetings were held in Albany Hall, and parents faced fines for non-compliance.

One notable figure from this time was Miss Lily Loat, Head Scholar at Tiffin Girls' School, who joined the National Anti-Vaccination League in 1898. She remained a key figure in the movement until her death in 1958.

Join retired drug regulator and medical historian Anthony C. Cartwright as he explores this fascinating local and national history—from early resistance to Edward Jenner's vaccine to the propaganda wars of the Anti-Compulsory Vaccination League from 1853 to 1972.

Don't miss this interesting social history talk that connects past debates with present-day questions.

Subscribe to our weekly What's On Newsletter for Free

Share:

Related Events

Kingston Undercurrents

Friday 11 July

FREE PUBLIC MEETING

Where

FUSEBOX

What

Music

When

13 Feb 2025 - 14 Aug 2025

Credit: Tilly O'Brien

Friday 11 July

FREE PUBLIC MEETING

Where

Stanley Picker Gallery Kingston University London Kingston School of Art Grange Road Kingston upon Thames KT1 2QJ

What

Arts & Crafts

When

8 May 2025 - 19 Jul 2025

Sign-up for our FREE newsletter...

We want to provide kingston with more and more clickbait-free news.

     

...or become a Supporter.
Kingston. Your Town. Your News.

Local news is essential for our community — but it needs your support.
Your donation makes a real difference.
For monthly donators:
Ad-free experience