The Philanthropic Legacy of the Gidlow Sisters
The Gidlow Sisters, Margaret Eleanor and Amelia, were notable 19th-century local philanthropists whose contributions had a profound impact on the Wigan community.
Born at Derbyshire House, Amberswood, Ince, they were the daughters of William Gidlow, a prosperous colliery owner, cotton mill proprietor, and corn dealer. William’s diverse investments, including extensive railway shares, provided a substantial inheritance for his daughters upon his death in 1851. This inheritance not only ensured their financial security but also enabled their significant philanthropic endeavors.
Early Life and Relocation
Following their father’s death, the sisters, along with one of their brothers, moved to Arley Hall. Later, for reasons not entirely clear, Margaret and Amelia relocated to Lyme Regis. Despite their move from the Wigan area, their charitable efforts continued to benefit their hometown significantly.
Major Contributions to Wigan
Christ Church, Ince
One of the sisters’ first major philanthropic acts was a donation of over £6,000 for the building and redecoration of Christ Church, Ince (Ince Parish Church). This substantial contribution ensured the church’s construction and maintenance, providing a place of worship and community gathering for local residents.
Wigan Dispensary and the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary (RAEI)
The Gidlow Sisters were regular benefactors of the Wigan Dispensary, the precursor to the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary (RAEI). Their support for the Dispensary laid the groundwork for more extensive contributions to the healthcare infrastructure in Wigan.
In 1866, the idea of establishing a hospital in Wigan gained momentum, leading to the formation of a committee chaired by John Lancaster and including notable businessmen like Nathaniel Eckersley. A pivotal moment in this initiative was a letter from the Gidlow Sisters, which inspired promises of donations amounting to £15,000—half of the projected total cost of £30,000 for the new hospital.
In 1885, Amelia Gidlow made a significant donation of £6,000 to build the Gidlow Wing at the RAEI in memory of her sister, Margaret Eleanor. The Gidlow Wing not only expanded the hospital’s capacity but also stood as a lasting tribute to the sisters’ commitment to public health.
At the opening of the Gidlow Wing, Amelia expressed her heartfelt wish: “I hope that all sufferers who are brought here will find relief, comfort, and kindness within these walls.” This statement encapsulated the sisters’ compassionate vision for the hospital.
Final Bequest
Upon Amelia’s death on July 29, 1893, she bequeathed her railway shares, valued at £32,135, to the RAEI. This final act of generosity brought the sisters’ total donations to the infirmary to over £43,000, a sum equivalent to several million pounds in today’s money.
Recognition and Ongoing Legacy
To honor the Gidlow Sisters’ generosity, a stained glass window and oil portraits of the sisters were commissioned and displayed in the Infirmary’s Board Room, alongside portraits of Drs. Barnish and Berry.
However, the whereabouts of these historical pieces are currently unknown. Efforts by Wigan Building Preservation Trust volunteers to locate these artifacts have so far been unsuccessful.
Nevertheless, in March 2021, the name “Gidlow” was revived within the Wigan Infirmary through the naming of the Gidlow Lounge, ensuring that the sisters' legacy continues to be remembered.
Conclusion
The Gidlow Sisters’ philanthropy has left an indelible mark on Wigan’s community, particularly in the realm of healthcare. Their generous donations facilitated the establishment and expansion of the Royal Albert Edward Infirmary, providing invaluable medical care to countless individuals over the years.
As ongoing efforts seek to recover and commemorate the physical artifacts of their legacy, the impact of their contributions remains a testament to their enduring spirit of compassion and civic duty.
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