J Ward

J Ward is a former hospital that was used as a mental asylum in Ararat, Australia. It was in operation from 1867 to 1991. After its closure, it was converted into a museum.

History

J Ward started its life as a goldfields prison in 1859. When the gold ran out in the mid 1860s, the prison buildings were acquired by the Lunacy Department as a temporary housing for the criminally insane. The facility became known as J Ward. For over 130 years, it housed many of the most dangerous men in Victoria, who were deemed criminally insane.

Structure

The original bluestone structure was built around a central courtyard. The governor's residence is located at the front of the complex, with a gatehouse at the entrance. The prison chapel is located on the western side of the complex, and the eastern side houses the kitchen and the dining room.

Museum

After its closure in 1991, J Ward was opened to the public as a museum. The museum offers guided tours that provide insights into the lives of the inmates and the history of mental health treatment in Australia.

See also

• Aradale Mental Hospital
• Mental health in Australia
• History of psychiatric institutions

External links

• Official website

J Ward Resources
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