Edith Rudd, nurse

Edith Rudd (nee Lewis), 1891-1982,  served in World War I and World War II and was matron of Wairau Hospital for 20 years between the wars.

Edith Rudd, nee Lewis. Image supplied by author

She enlisted with the New Zealand Army Nursing Service (NZANS), sailing from Wellington on the Marama in December 1915, and served in Egypt until 1918.

Edith receiving her award. Image supplied by author

Matron Lewis was awarded campaign medals for both of the World Wars. She also received the highest military nursing award, the Royal Red Cross First (1st Class) in 1944 and, in 1961, she was presented with the highest distinction in nursing, the Florence Nightingale Medal.

Story by: Marlborough Museum and Archives