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.