[1] The Western Infirmary opened as a voluntary hospital relying upon donations and bequests from members of the public.

Taking its name from the family that had gifted almost £25,000 towards its foundation the institute worked in conjunction with the University of Glasgow.

[11][12] At the end of 2015 the Minor Injuries Unit moved a short distance to the Yorkhill Hospital site and the Western Infirmary closed completely on 6 December 2015.

[15] At the time the Western Infirmary was opened individual hospitals conducted their own nurse training programmes.

Successful completion of the four year programme and passing the examination led to the award of the Certificate of the Infirmary.

[21] Around the time of the first World War a number of nurses who had either been trained or worked at the Western Infirmary went on to have distinguished careers including positions of high rank in both medical and military services.

[23] Dame Katherine Watt, DBE RRC, served as a sister in WW1 and later joined the Ministry of Defence as Chief Nursing Officer.

[24][25] Dame Emily Blair, DBE RRC, succeeded her as Matron-in-Chief of the RAF Nursing service and was subsequently Matron-in Chief of the British Red Cross.