Dr. Peter Bryce

Dr. Peter Bryce (1834-1892) was a young man of 26 when he was elected superintendent (on the recommendation of Dorothea Dix–see posts for 5/13 and 5/16) of the newly built Alabama Insane Hospital in 1860. The first patient was admitted in 1861, and Bryce insisted from the start that his attendants display courtesy and kindness to anyone admitted.

He also instituted a system of work (farming, sewing) that helped the institution make ends meet and provided a sort of occupational therapy for patients; his program provided amusements as well, including music, that also benefited  patients. His practices were very successful, and by 1882 he was able to institute a policy of “absolute non-restraint.”

Bryce died in 1892 and the hospital was renamed Alabama Bryce Insane Hospital in his honor.

Postcard of Bryce Hospital (circa 1900)

Bryce Hospital Laundry