1880 - 1920

The job title 'Lady Superintendent' was used for a short time - 1880 – 1885.  Thereafter the title 'Matron' was preferred.

During this early period the holders of these positions had no special training in hospital management but were appointed simply on the basis that they were considered able to do the job.

Frances Keith Payne held the position for a total of sixteen years, bringing stability to the hospital nursing workforce and gaining a reputation of one who ensured a high standard of practice was observed.

Challenges during this period included a significant number of the nursing staff being away on active WW1 service, and an ever increasing shortage of beds.