Throwback Thursday: Hospital life during wartime

During World War II, monthly air raid drills were held throughout what is now Yale New Haven Hospital as part of the New Haven Civilian Defense Program. The drills helped staff practice the most effective ways to deal with power failures, bombings and chemical assaults. In this 1942 photo, a hospital volunteer practiced using a long-handled shovel to pour sand over an incendiary device. To see the helmet used in this photograph, along with other memorabilia, visit the YNHH Archives display near the York Street Campus Atrium lobby. The “Yale New Haven during WWII” display will be up until Jan. 17. If you have stories or mementos to share about the hospital during WWII, contact the Archives, [email protected] or 203-688-5450.