Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanatorium Historic District

Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanatorium Historic District

The Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanatorium Historic District is a significant historical site located in Booneville, Arkansas. Established in 1909, the sanatorium was a response to the tuberculosis epidemic that swept through the United States in the early 20th century. The facility served as a specialized hospital dedicated to the treatment and care of patients suffering from tuberculosis, also known as the "white plague." The sanatorium was one of the largest and most comprehensive tuberculosis treatment centers in the United States during its peak operation.

History

The establishment of the Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanatorium was driven by the urgent need to address the tuberculosis crisis. Tuberculosis, a deadly infectious disease affecting the lungs, was a leading cause of death at the time. The sanatorium was designed to isolate patients and provide them with rest, fresh air, and nutritious food, which were considered essential for recovery.

Construction of the sanatorium began in 1909, and the facility officially opened its doors to patients in 1910. Over the years, the sanatorium expanded to include numerous buildings and facilities, including patient wards, a nurses' home, a doctor's residence, and a dairy farm to supply fresh milk to the patients.

Facilities

The Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanatorium Historic District encompasses several key buildings and structures that were integral to its operation. The most notable include:

• The Nurses' Home, which housed the nursing staff.
• The Administration Building, which served as the administrative center.
• Patient wards, designed to accommodate the large number of tuberculosis patients.
• The Dairy Farm, which provided fresh milk as part of the dietary treatment for patients.

Treatment and Care

The treatment at the Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanatorium was based on the "fresh air cure," which emphasized exposure to fresh air, rest, and a nutritious diet. Patients spent much of their time in outdoor sleeping porches, regardless of the weather, to maximize their exposure to fresh air. This approach was common in tuberculosis sanatoria of the time.

Decline and Closure

With the development of effective tuberculosis antibiotics in the mid-20th century, the need for sanatoria began to decline. The Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanatorium saw a decrease in patient admissions and eventually ceased operations as a tuberculosis treatment facility in 1973. The site has since been repurposed for other uses but remains an important historical landmark.

Preservation

Today, the Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanatorium Historic District is recognized for its historical and architectural significance. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The district serves as a reminder of the fight against tuberculosis and the evolution of medical treatment and care practices.

See Also

• Tuberculosis treatment in the United States
• National Register of Historic Places
• History of tuberculosis