Kew Asylum

Historical mental health facility in Victoria, Australia

Kew Asylum skyline

The Kew Asylum, also known as the Willsmere Hospital, was a psychiatric hospital located in Kew, Victoria, a suburb of Melbourne, Australia. It was one of the largest asylums in the state of Victoria and played a significant role in the history of mental health care in Australia.

History

The Kew Asylum was established in the late 19th century as part of a broader movement to improve the care of the mentally ill. The facility was designed to accommodate the growing number of patients who could not be adequately cared for in existing institutions.

Construction of the asylum began in 1864, and it officially opened in 1872. The design of the asylum was based on the E-plan layout, which was popular in the 19th century for mental health facilities. This layout was intended to provide a humane and therapeutic environment for patients.

Architecture

Drawing of Kew Asylum

The architecture of Kew Asylum is notable for its grand scale and elaborate design. The main building is a large, imposing structure with a central tower and extensive wings. The design reflects the Victorian architectural style of the period, with intricate detailing and a focus on symmetry.

The asylum was surrounded by extensive grounds, which were landscaped to provide a pleasant environment for patients. These grounds included gardens, walking paths, and recreational areas.

Operations

Kew Asylum grounds

During its operation, Kew Asylum housed a large number of patients, many of whom were admitted for conditions that would not be considered mental illnesses today. The asylum was often overcrowded, and conditions varied over the years.

The staff at Kew Asylum included doctors, nurses, and attendants who were responsible for the care and treatment of the patients. Treatment methods evolved over time, reflecting changes in the understanding of mental health.

Closure and Redevelopment

Entrance gates of Kew Asylum

The Kew Asylum was gradually phased out as a mental health facility in the late 20th century. Advances in psychiatric care and a shift towards community-based treatment led to the closure of many large asylums.

In the 1980s, the site was redeveloped into a residential complex known as Willsmere. The redevelopment preserved many of the original buildings, which are now heritage-listed.

Legacy

Buildings of Kew Asylum

The legacy of Kew Asylum is complex. While it provided care for many individuals, it also reflects the challenges and limitations of mental health care in the past. The site remains an important part of Victoria's architectural and social history.

Related pages

• Mental health in Australia
• Victorian architecture
• History of psychiatry