Rockhaven Sanitarium Historic District

Rockhaven Gates

Rockhaven Sanitarium Historic District is a historic district located in Glendale, California. The district is notable for its role in the history of mental health care and its unique architectural style. It was established in 1923 by psychiatric nurse Agnes Richards as a private mental health institution for women. The sanitarium was designed to provide a more humane and home-like environment for its patients, contrasting sharply with the often harsh conditions of state-run asylums of the time.

History

The Rockhaven Sanitarium was founded in 1923 by Agnes Richards, a nurse who had previously worked at the Patton State Hospital. Richards was motivated by her desire to create a more compassionate and supportive environment for women suffering from mental illness. The sanitarium quickly gained a reputation for its progressive approach to mental health care, emphasizing individualized treatment and a tranquil, homelike setting.

Architecture

The architecture of the Rockhaven Sanitarium Historic District is characterized by its Spanish Colonial Revival and Craftsman styles. The buildings are set within beautifully landscaped gardens, which were intended to provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for the patients. The district includes several cottages, a main administration building, and various other structures that were used for patient care and administrative purposes.

Significance

The Rockhaven Sanitarium Historic District is significant for its contributions to the history of mental health care, particularly in its innovative approach to the treatment of women with mental illnesses. It is also notable for its architectural styles, which reflect the broader trends in California architecture during the early 20th century.

Preservation

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to preserve the Rockhaven Sanitarium Historic District. The site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2016, recognizing its historical and architectural significance. Efforts are ongoing to restore and repurpose the buildings for community use while maintaining their historical integrity.

Related Pages

• Glendale, California
• Spanish Colonial Revival architecture
• Craftsman architecture
• National Register of Historic Places
• Mental health care in the United States