triple pane state hospital for the insane

Triple Pane State Hospital for the Insane first opened its doors in 1854. The complex was situated on a 154-acre plot of land which was formerly a farm in a rural part of the state. This area was chosen under the belief that a serene setting would aid in tranquilizing the minds of the insane. The hospital was completed in 1853 at the cost of $151,742.48 and is a beautiful example of classic revival institutional architecture in Georgian style. Cast iron on the windows and porches served both a decorative and functional use. It is most known for its amazing semi-circular raised walkways connecting the main building to the two infirmary buildings, which were added to the complex in the 1890s. The structure also contains beautiful cupolas atop its roofs.

Inside, all modern conveniences were included: heat, running water, sewer, etc. There was a chapel, kitchen, bakery, laundry facilities, dining rooms, staff apartments, and dorm style as well as private patient rooms- a new innovation in mental healthcare.

The main kirkbride and connecting infirmary buildings were abandoned in the year 1975. The large dome over the building’s administrative center collapsed in 1999. On March 19 2006 a fire broke out in the same section, and the entire administrative area of the complex was destroyed. The wings are still standing, but no plans have been made thus far to preserve them.

There are still active buildings on the property. Ten wards house long term psychiatric care and forensic evaluations, as well as two youth units and two adolescent wards.