Foxborough State Hospital

A historical overview of Foxborough State Hospital

Foxborough State Hospital

Foxborough State Hospital was a psychiatric hospital located in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Established in the late 19th century, it served as a significant institution for mental health care in the region until its closure in the late 20th century.

History

Foxborough State Hospital was founded in 1889 as the Massachusetts Hospital for Dipsomaniacs and Inebriates, making it one of the first institutions in the United States dedicated to the treatment of alcoholism and substance abuse. The hospital was later renamed Foxborough State Hospital and expanded its services to include the treatment of various mental illnesses.

Early Years

The hospital was initially designed to accommodate 200 patients, focusing on the treatment of alcohol addiction. The facility was part of a broader movement during the late 19th century to address the growing concern of alcoholism as a public health issue. The hospital's approach combined medical treatment with moral and occupational therapy.

Expansion and Development

In the early 20th century, Foxborough State Hospital expanded its facilities and services to include the treatment of mental illnesses beyond substance abuse. This expansion was part of a statewide effort to improve mental health care and provide more comprehensive services to patients.

Mid-20th Century

During the mid-20th century, the hospital continued to grow, adding new buildings and modernizing its treatment methods. However, like many state hospitals of the time, it faced challenges such as overcrowding and limited resources.

Closure

Foxborough State Hospital was closed in 1976 as part of a larger trend of deinstitutionalization, which aimed to reduce the number of patients in state hospitals and integrate them into community-based care. The closure reflected a shift in mental health care policy towards outpatient treatment and community support.

Architecture

The hospital's architecture is notable for its use of the Kirkbride Plan, a design philosophy that emphasized natural light, ventilation, and a therapeutic environment. The main building featured a central administration area with wings extending outward, allowing for segregation of patients based on their condition and treatment needs.

Current Status

After its closure, the hospital grounds were repurposed for various uses. Some of the original buildings have been preserved and repurposed, while others have been demolished. The site remains a point of historical interest, reflecting the evolution of mental health care in Massachusetts.

Related pages

• Kirkbride Plan
• Deinstitutionalization
• History of psychiatric institutions in the United States