The College of Optometrists

 

What is the LMoHM?

 

The London Museums of Health and Medicine is a consortium of specialist museums in the British capital, several of which, like the BOA Museum, are to be found housed in the headquarters of medical examining colleges and professional bodies. The BOA Museum Curator was Secretary to this group from 2000-2003 and remains an active participant in group activities.

 

All LMoHM museums are open to the general public although opening arrangements vary considerably between them. For more information go to the LMoHM website.

 

The LMoHM produces a joint leaflet, the latest version of which (launched March 2006) may be seen on the right. Copies of the leaflet may be obtained from the BOA Museum. It gives a brief overview of each member organisation's collection, public opening times and relevant contact details.

 

 

LMoHM Group Events

 

The group also participates in heritage events. On 16 October 2004 the group hosted a stand for the second time at the 'London Maze' Local History Event at Guildhall featuring information, object demonstrations and souvenir sales. Over 2000 people attended, many of whom learned how to roll pills, what went inside a red cross aid package and how to conduct an early Victorian amputation. The BOA Museum contributed a 1950s trial case with trial frames that visitors could try on, together with two booklets of Keeler Near Vision test charts. The 2004 event was opened by television quizmaster, historian and museums advocate Bamber Gascoigne. 2003's VIP guest, the television archaeologist Michael Wood, showed an interest in Dr Emarah's Arabic test letter chart.

 

In 2005 several group members were represented at the St Mary's Hospital Fun Day in Paddington. The oversized spectacles were a great talking point and it may surprise you to learn that they are actually more than 45 years old.

 

Enquiries about the LMoHM group should be directed via the LMoHM website or sent to the Chairman, (2004-2007) Jane Hughes at the Royal College of Surgeons of England.