Edith Cavell and Maidstone typhoid epidemic grey plaque

This grey commemorative plaque records: "Patriotism is not enough". Edith Cavell 1865-1915. Executed by German firing squad, October 12th 1915. During the summer of 1897, Edith Cavell tended typhoid victims in the Maidstone typhoid epidemic. Out of 1,700 who contracted the disease only 132 died. For her service to the community she was awarded the Maidstone typhoid medal. "I must have no hatred or bitterness towards anyone".

Edith Cavell, a British nurse, cared for soldiers on both sides during World War I before being executed by German forces for assisting Allied soldiers to escape from occupied Belgium; her execution highlighted wartime atrocities and bolstered anti-German sentiment in the Allies. In 1897, she played a crucial role in managing the Maidstone typhoid epidemic, significantly reducing mortality rates through her medical efforts.