April 2025: Park House Brass Plaque

April’s Object of the Month is a brass plaque that came from Park House in Swindon.  Park House was built in 1877.  It became the home and practice of GWR doctor, George Money Swinhoe.

When Dr Swinhoe died in 1908 Park House was converted to undertake medical and eyesight examinations for railway employees.  However, the GWR doctor, or Chief Medical Officer still had a room in Park House and this is where the brass plaque is from.  Dr George Money Swinhoe was succeeded by his son, George Rodney Swinhoe.  He continued to operate out of Park House until 1917.

Park House in about 1920

Park House is still standing and can be seen at the corner of Faringdon Road Park.  It was a familiar sight to many railway employees as it was the place they were called to for their medicals.  It was used heavily in the examinations for engine drivers and firemen as medicals were an important part of their career progression.

The brass plaque is currently displayed in our exhibition A Job for Life – Becoming an Engine Driver which runs until Spring 2026.