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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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.

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

Official website

J Ward Resources
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