Medfield State Hospital

Medfield State Hospital

Medfield State Hospital

The Medfield State Hospital is a historic former psychiatric hospital complex located in Medfield, Massachusetts. Established in 1892, it was one of the first state-run institutions in the United States designed to provide care for the mentally ill. The hospital was operational until 2003, after which it was closed and the property was repurposed for other uses.

History

The Medfield State Hospital was originally known as the "Medfield Insane Asylum" when it opened in 1896. It was designed following the Kirkbride Plan, which was a system of mental asylum design advocated by Thomas Story Kirkbride in the mid-19th century. The hospital was built to alleviate overcrowding at other state institutions and to provide a more humane environment for patients.

Early Years

In its early years, the hospital was self-sufficient, with its own farm, power plant, and water supply. Patients were involved in various occupational therapies, including farming, which was believed to be beneficial for their mental health. The hospital's design and operation reflected the era's belief in the therapeutic value of work and fresh air.

Mid-20th Century

During the mid-20th century, Medfield State Hospital, like many other psychiatric institutions, faced challenges such as overcrowding and underfunding. The introduction of psychotropic medications in the 1950s led to a shift in treatment approaches, and many patients were discharged as part of the deinstitutionalization movement.

Closure

The hospital was officially closed in 2003 as part of a broader trend of closing large state-run psychiatric facilities. The closure was due in part to changes in mental health care policy and the move towards community-based treatment options.

Architecture

The hospital complex consists of numerous buildings, many of which are connected by underground tunnels. The architecture is characterized by its Colonial Revival and Tudor Revival styles, with red brick facades and slate roofs. The layout of the hospital was designed to provide a serene and therapeutic environment for patients.

Current Use

After its closure, the Medfield State Hospital property was acquired by the town of Medfield. The site is now used for various community activities and events. Some of the buildings have been preserved and are used for filming movies and television shows, while others remain vacant.

Related Pages

• Kirkbride Plan
• Deinstitutionalization
• Psychiatric hospital
• Thomas Story Kirkbride