Fergusson, Elizabeth (1867–1930)
Fergusson, Elizabeth (1867–1930)
New Zealand nurse, midwife, and hospital matron. Born Elizabeth Leila Ralston Fergusson, April 16, 1867, at Balligmorrie, Ayrshire, Scotland; died on Feb 12, 1930, near Wanganui, New Zealand; dau. of James (farmer) and Eliza (Ralston) Fergusson; Obstetrical Society of London, diploma, 1897.
Trained at Briston Royal Infirmary (1894); worked as private nurse (1897–1900); served with Britain's Army Nursing Service Reserve during South African War (1900–02); immigrated to New Zealand (1902); worked at private hospital in Wanganui (1902–07); administered Ruanui Maternity Hospital at Taihape (1907–12); became matron of Bay of Islands Hospital at Kawakawa (1912–14); assumed position of native health nurse for Mangonui district (1914–26); purchased land, built own cottage, and converted horse-drawn ambulance into medical supply vehicle for visits around district.
See also Dictionary of New Zealand Biography (Vol. 3).