In the pages of the December 2023 edition of ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ magazine, a treasure from the annals of history has emerged. This publication, closely tied to the BBC television series exploring celebrities’ family histories, features a recurring segment known as ‘Gem from the Archive.’ In this section, archivists are given the spotlight to share a remarkable find from their collections, shedding light on its historical significance and the rationale behind its selection.
The spotlight for this edition falls on Ian Gray, the Archivist at Walsall Council, who has chosen to bring to the fore a poignant letter composed by Sister Dora on October 30, 1878. Dorothy Pattison, affectionately known as Sister Dora, was a dedicated nun whose selfless service touched the lives of Walsall’s residents. Her legacy endures, symbolised by a statue erected in her honour in Walsall Town Centre since 1886.
What makes this discovery truly captivating is the revelation of secret letters, hidden until after her passing, which unveil a clandestine romance between Sister Dora and a local businessman, Kenyon Jones.
“Sister Dora is synonymous with Walsall and to this day is held in the highest esteem by the people of the borough,” shares Ian Gray. “The collection of letters that we hold here at Walsall Archives offers a view of her as a human being like you or I, outside of the formal, reverential image with which she is associated.
The final letter in the collection is incredibly poignant and is also the final time she made contact with Kenyon Jones and the first he would have known of the seriousness of her illness as she had kept her situation secret from everyone but those who had to know.
This Christmas Eve marks the 145th anniversary of her passing, so the publication of this article in ‘Who Do You Think You Are’ magazines Christmas edition is particularly apt.”
Among the correspondence lies a letter of exceptional poignancy, serving as the final communication between Sister Dora and Kenyon Jones. It also marks the first instance where he learned of the gravity of her illness, a secret she had guarded closely, revealing it only to those who needed to know.
As we approach the 145th anniversary of her passing on Christmas Eve, the publication of this article in ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ magazine’s Christmas edition carries profound significance.
The letter, addressed to Mr. Jones, bears witness to the emotional turmoil within Sister Dora’s heart: “My darling, I dare not see you; it agitates me so much. I feel almost it might kill me. I am sure it only distresses you to see me in such a state, and I cannot prevent it.”
“Ah Kenyon, you must not fret for me or grieve – I think I shall soon lay down the cross and must exchange it for a crown.”
Councillor Garry Perry, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Resilient Communities at Walsall Council, acknowledges the exceptional contributions of Sister Dora: “Sister Dora was an exceptional woman whose inspirational work during the 1860s and 1870s set the standard for healthcare locally. These letters truly showcase the fascinating history encapsulated within our archives, shedding light on the life of a Walsall hero. It is indeed a privilege to gain such insights, and we are thrilled to see part of her story featured in a well-known and respected publication.”
The Walsall Archives, a repository of over 1,700 collections spanning from c.1200 to the present day, including institutional materials from Walsall Council and its predecessors, continue to preserve and share the rich tapestry of history that makes Walsall a town of enduring significance.