Fair Mile Hospital

Fair Mile Hospital was a psychiatric hospital located near Cholsey, near Wallingford, Oxfordshire, England. It was a key institution in the history of psychiatric care in Britain, reflecting the evolution of mental health care over nearly a century and a half.

History

Fair Mile Hospital opened in 1870 as the Berkshire County Lunatic Asylum, at a time when the treatment of mental illness was undergoing significant changes. The hospital was designed by architect Henry Edward Kendall, and its layout followed the then-popular broad arrow plan, allowing for segregation of patients by gender and the severity of their condition. The hospital's design and operation were influenced by the moral treatment philosophy, which emphasized humane treatment, the use of natural light, fresh air, and the therapeutic value of work and recreation.

Throughout its history, Fair Mile Hospital expanded to accommodate the growing need for psychiatric care. By the early 20th century, it had become a self-sufficient community with its own farm, laundry, and bakery. The hospital played a significant role during both World Wars, serving as a military hospital and providing care for soldiers suffering from shell shock, now known as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In the latter half of the 20th century, the approach to mental health care shifted towards community-based treatments, leading to a gradual decline in the patient population at institutions like Fair Mile. The hospital officially closed in 2003, marking the end of an era for psychiatric care in the region.

After Closure

After its closure, the Fair Mile Hospital site underwent significant redevelopment. The hospital buildings and grounds were converted into a mixed-use development, including residential housing, while preserving the historical architecture of the original asylum. This redevelopment reflects a broader trend of repurposing former psychiatric hospitals, balancing the need for modern facilities with the preservation of historical heritage.

Legacy

Fair Mile Hospital's legacy is multifaceted. It serves as a reminder of the evolution of mental health care, from institutionalization to community-based treatments. The hospital's records, preserved in local archives, provide valuable insights into the social history of mental health care, the treatment of psychiatric conditions, and the lives of the individuals who lived and worked there.

The site's transformation into a residential and community space also highlights the changing attitudes towards mental health and the reuse of historical buildings in contemporary society.

See Also

• History of psychiatric institutions
• Moral treatment
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Community mental health service