Page 86 - Demo

Vintage Postcards of Indiana Health FacilitiesBetween 1887 and 1890, the first three structures were built for The School for Feeble Minded Youth in Richmond. But in 1890, its children were transferred to Fort Wayne, and the buildings were remodeled to become a hospital for mentally ill adults%u2014which has had several names over the years, beginning with the Eastern Indiana Asylum for the Insane, then the Eastern Indiana Hospital for the Insane, and finally becoming the Richmond State Hospital in 1927. Although never an official name, it was long referred to as East Haven or Easthaven. Its first patient was admitted on August 4, 1890. For the most part, the facility was constructed on the cottage plan to prevent any %u201cdisastrous conflagration.%u201d However, its main administration building has adjacent buildings extending out like wings, similar to the Kirkbride plan. Architectural details of the oldest buildings include exterior cupolas, and such interior detailing as intricate railings and stained glass. In 1911, five separate farms, known as the Wayne Farms, were purchased for patients to work in, and produce food for the Hospital. Participants received many ribbons and prizes for their exhibits of cattle and farm products at both the Wayne County Fair and the Indiana State Fair. Patients also had their own orchestra which entertained both residents and guests in the Assembly Hall. Today, the Richmond State Hospital is a model mental-health facility. It is situated on a 120-acre campus in a park-like setting with beautiful trees, shrubs, copious flower beds, and an attractive pond. Two of its newer buildings include a 192- bed Residential Treatment Center and a food Preparation Center%u2014both completed in 1991. Of particular pride is the hospital%u2019s Klepfer All Faiths Chapel which was entirely financed by the local community, and named to honor Dr. Jefferson Klepfer, M.D., who served as superintendent from 1953 to 1976.Eastern Indiana Hospital for the Insane%u2014%u2014Richmond, Indiana%u2014%u2014Established 1890For much of its history only custodial care was available to patients, then there was a change to active treatment,including psycho-social options and medication management. Today, the hospital utilizes an approachthat looks a every option, and involves the patient, their family, and the community.Asylums and Institutions