Call Number:

UPC 14

Repository:

University of Pennsylvania: University Archives and Records Center

Extent:

1 cubic feet

Language:

English

Date:

1917-1919 (inclusive)

Abstract:

Base Hospital No. 20 was created by the University of Pennsylvania, the American Red Cross, and the War Department for service during World War I. This collection includes laboratory records, lists of supplies, pathology of influenza and pneumonia reports, and professional correspondence regarding hospital protocols, medical procedures, and medical supplies from the Base Hospital.

Base Hospital No. 20 was created by the University of Pennsylvania, the American Red Cross, and the War Department in 1916 as a response to World War I. After Congress declared war against Germany in 1917, the War Department called Base Hospital No.20 into active service in the Medical Corps of the United States Army. A total of 22 medical officers, 2 dentists, 1 chaplain, 65 nurses, and 153 enlisted men, the vast majority of whom were affiliated with Penn, worked at the Base Hospital. The unit went to France during 1918 and 1919 and treated American soldiers, French soldiers, and some German prisoners. The unit successfully operated around 4000 surgeries and treated 5000 medical and gas patients with only 65 deaths. While the hospital treated battle casualties and disease, it was also known for its work on tuberculosis and influenza.

This collection includes laboratory records, lists of supplies, pathology of influenza and pneumonia reports, and professional correspondence regarding hospital protocols, medical procedures, and medical supplies from the Base Hospital. It also includes personal portraits as well as architectural drawings of buildings used by the Hospital.

This collection is arranged alphabetically.