author
Violetta Thurstan
1879–1978
A fearless nurse, writer, and traveler, Violetta Thurstan witnessed the upheavals of the First World War from field hospitals in Belgium and Russia. Her vivid books reflect a life shaped by courage, compassion, and an extraordinary spirit of adventure.
1 Audiobook
About the author
Born Anna Violet Thurstan on 4 February 1879 in Ore, Sussex, Violetta Thurstan trained as a nurse at the London Hospital and worked in hospitals, nursing associations, and children’s institutions before the First World War. She spoke several languages and travelled widely, combining professional nursing with a deep interest in history and geography.
During the war, Thurstan served with the Belgian and Russian Red Cross, caring for wounded soldiers in dangerous frontline conditions. Her experiences inspired books including Field Hospital and Flying Column, an account of nursing in Belgium and Russia. She was recognised for her courage by three countries and received the Military Medal.
After the war, Thurstan worked in administration and developed expertise in weaving, dyeing, and textile arts. She also helped refugees and prisoners of war, continued to write, and remained active in humanitarian work until her death in Penryn, Cornwall, on 13 April 1978.