Throughout much of the twentieth century, the use of straitjackets in mental institutions reflected the broader attitudes toward mental illness, control, and institutional care. Originally introduced as a means of preventing patients from harming themselves or others, straitjackets were considered […]
Physical Restraints Read More »
The Ovens Benevolent Asylum was opened in 1863 on a site in Warner Road adjacent to the Beechworth Lunatic Asylum. Known to generations of Beechworth residents as ‘The Benev’, the Asylum was one of a number of similar institutions across
Ovens Benevolent Asylum:
‘The Benev’ Read More »
From the outset, the asylum plans included a recreation hall where entertainments such as concerts could be held for patients. It was constructed as a separate wing immediately behind the central administration block and together with the kitchen and stores
Visitors to Mayday Hills always comment on the magnificent grounds surrounding the buildings. With a mix of exotic deciduous trees, striking natives and an array of flowering shrubs like rhododendrons, the gardens provide colour and shade in every season. Development
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Edith Agnes HARRINGTON was a patient in Mayday Hills from about 1950 until her death in December 1980. She is remembered by staff because of the exquisite and unusual embroidery she loved to do, examples of which are on display
Situated at the top of Albert Road, the heritage listed Gatehouse is the first building visitors see as they enter the Mayday Hills complex. Completed in 1870, the Gatehouse is of two storeys, built in the Italianate style echoing the
The medical superintendent and medical officers were expected to live on the grounds of Mayday Hills Psychiatric Hospital in staff homes that were large enough to accommodate their families. The superintendent’s home, built in 1906, was located opposite the main
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In the early morning of August 17, 1951, a fire destroyed the male wing at Beechworth Mental Hospital. The fire had begun in the ceiling at around 5:30 am when an attendant noticed smoke coming from the ceiling. Five attendants
Former men’s wing –
oneofftwo Studio
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Asylum postcards provide an excellent visual record of the mental hospital over time. While today’s audiences may find these postcards rather grim, photographers of the past found asylum buildings impressive and visually pleasing. For postcard production, photographers sought out appealing
Mayday Hills patients and staff produced The Open Door magazine and engaged in all aspects of the magazine’s production. From hand-colouring each front cover to binding and distribution, it was considered a form of occupational therapy. Contents included announcements of
The Open Door: Patient Magazine Read More »
