Patients Putting on a Play, Long Island State Hospital
Though Dr. Harry Hummer failed in many important areas when it came to providing care to his patients, he did try to provide occupations for the patients who wanted to be active. Some letters from patients to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs speak of being grateful for chores because being busy helped pass the time. Continue reading
Patients Putting on a Play, Long Island State Hospital
Especially in their early years, most asylums took pride in offering patients light entertainment of various sorts, to help them get their minds off whatever had brought on their troubles. Many asylums had libraries with books and current magazines for patients, and staff encouraged reading, letter-writing, fancy sewing, and other calm pursuits. The community often took an interest in the local asylum, with local churches volunteering to sing and lead Bible studies there. Asylums also budgeted for lectures, magic lantern shows, and movies.
Social Room at Arizona Insane Asylum
Chapel in Asylum, 1896, courtesy Library of Congress
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