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Dorset County Asylum (Herrison Hospital), Charlton Down
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Dorset County Asylum (Herrison Hospital), Charlton Down
Dorset County Asylum (Herrison Hospital), Charlton Down Date: 1904
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14147412
© Mary Evans/Peter Higginbotham Collection
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: A Peek into the Past: Dorset County Asylum (Herrison Hospital), Charlton Down (1904) This evocative photograph, taken in 1904, offers a glimpse into the history of Dorset County Asylum, also known as Herrison Hospital, situated in the picturesque village of Charlton Down, Dorset. The image captures the imposing and somewhat foreboding facade of the asylum, which was designed to provide care and treatment for individuals with mental health conditions during a time when such institutions were the primary means of support for those in need. The Dorset County Asylum, established in 1861, was one of many asylums built throughout England during the Victorian era to address the growing concern for the welfare of the mentally ill. The institution was designed to accommodate up to 300 patients and was renowned for its innovative approach to care, which included the implementation of a therapeutic farm and horticultural therapy. The photograph reveals the grandeur and scale of the building, with its red-brick exterior, tall chimneys, and intricate architectural details. The expansive grounds, dotted with trees and verdant lawns, can be seen stretching out in the background, providing ample space for the patients to engage in therapeutic activities. Despite the apparent tranquility of the scene, it is essential to remember that life within the asylum walls was far from easy. Patients were often subjected to harsh living conditions, limited freedoms, and outdated treatment methods. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the complex history of mental health care and the evolving attitudes towards those with mental health conditions. As we admire the beauty of this image, it is crucial to remember the human stories that lie behind its walls and the important role that institutions like Dorset County Asylum played in shaping the landscape of mental health care.
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