Forest Haven

Forest Haven was a large institution located in Laurel, Maryland, established in 1925 as the District Training School for the Mentally Retarded. It served as a live-in facility for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Over the years, Forest Haven underwent several name changes and shifts in management, reflecting broader changes in societal attitudes towards mental health and disability. The institution was designed to provide care and education to its residents; however, it became notorious for its poor living conditions, abuse, and neglect.

History

Forest Haven was established with the intention of providing a self-sufficient community where individuals with intellectual disabilities could live, learn, and work in a protected environment. Initially, the facility was praised for its innovative approach to care. However, as the years passed, the population of the institution grew significantly, leading to overcrowding and a decline in the quality of care provided.

By the 1960s and 1970s, reports began to emerge of inhumane treatment, including physical and sexual abuse, medical neglect, and unsanitary living conditions. These reports led to public outcry and legal action. In 1976, a lawsuit was filed against Forest Haven, alleging violations of residents' civil rights.

Closure and Aftermath

The legal battles culminated in a 1978 court order mandating the closure of Forest Haven. The process of deinstitutionalization was slow, and the facility did not officially close its doors until 1991. Following its closure, the abandoned site became a subject of urban exploration and a poignant reminder of the past mistreatment of individuals with disabilities.

The closure of Forest Haven was part of a larger national movement towards deinstitutionalization, which advocated for the integration of individuals with disabilities into the community and the provision of support services that allow for a more independent lifestyle.

Legacy

The legacy of Forest Haven is complex. While it stands as a dark chapter in the history of the treatment of individuals with intellectual disabilities, it also played a role in the shift towards more humane and community-based care. The lessons learned from the failures of Forest Haven have influenced policies and practices in the care of individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of respect, dignity, and the right to live in the community.