Down syndrome was named after John Langdon Down, a British doctor who, in 1866, was the first to classify this condition. It is important to emphasize that the name “Down” has no relation to delays or prognosis associated with the condition. It simply honors a doctor whose sensitivity and dedication marked a new era in the care and recognition of the dignity of people with Down syndrome.
John Langdon Down was born in 1828. After qualifying as a doctor at the London Hospital, he became Physician Superintendent at the Royal Earlswood Hospital in 1858. Langdon Down began his career as the chief physician at the Earlswood institution, which cared for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In 1868, he opened a private home for patients with developmental disabilities in Normansfield, Teddington, southwest of London.
Although he had no prior experience caring for people with such disabilities, Langdon Down showed a profound interest and empathy for them. At a time when many ignored their value and humanity, he recognized their dignity and was outraged by the inhumane treatment they received. Physical punishment, poor hygiene, and high mortality rates were typical in institutions of that era.
He started with about 20 patients, but with the help of business friends, relatives, and well-wishers, he raised the capital to develop and purchase two adjoining properties. New wings were added to the original house on either side. A recreation and entertainment hall, artisan workshops, a men’s club, and a laundry were built to further enrich his patients’ lives, promoting artistic and social development among the residents.
Determined to change past perceptions of intellectual and developmental disabilities, Dr. Langdon Down implemented transformative measures. In addition to proper care and strict hygiene, he banned physical punishment and introduced daily meaningful activities for the patients. Moreover, he photographed his patients with care and sensitivity, portraying them in elegant attire and favorable poses. These images, part of a collection of over 200 photos, supported his clinical descriptions of Down syndrome, detailing physical characteristics and other relevant medical observations.
Dr. John Langdon Down’s facility accommodated 150 patients
Between 1868 and 1891, it expanded to accommodate 150 patients, with a provision for resident staff. His wife, Mary, a very able and practical woman, assisted him in managing the hospital and was, to a great extent, responsible for the engagement of staff and the day-to-day organization. At the same time, her husband continued his consulting practice and lectures at the London Hospital for students and practitioners. Normansfield became very well known, and there were constant patient placement requests.
When John Langdon Down died in 1896 and his widow in 1901, they left Normansfield free of debt, all the mortgages paid off, and a happy and flourishing home for those they had cared for all their married lives.
Normansfield still stands today and is now known as The Langdon Down Centre. It houses the Normansfield Theatre, preserving the legacy of care and respect initiated by John Langdon Down.
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