Unveiling the Eerie Charm: 8 Fascinating Asylum Restoration Projects That Deserve Your Attention

Asylum restoration projects have gained popularity in recent years, attracting urban explorers and history enthusiasts alike. These projects not only preserve the architectural beauty of these abandoned structures but also shed light on the dark history surrounding mental health treatment. If you’re a fan of urban exploration or simply intrigued by the eerie charm of asylums, here are eight fascinating asylum restoration projects that deserve your attention.

1. Danvers State Hospital (Danvers, Massachusetts): Once known as “The Castle on the Hill,” this Gothic-inspired asylum was constructed in 1878. After years of neglect and decay, it was transformed into luxury apartments called Avalon Danvers. The project successfully retained many original features such as marble staircases and arched windows while incorporating modern amenities.

2. Eastern State Penitentiary (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania): Although primarily a prison rather than an asylum, Eastern State Penitentiary housed mentally ill inmates during its operating years. Now open for public tours, this National Historic Landmark offers visitors a glimpse into its haunting past through informative exhibits and preserved cellblocks.

3. Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum (Weston, West Virginia): This massive asylum underwent extensive restoration efforts to transform it into a tourist attraction offering guided tours and paranormal investigations. Visitors can explore various sections of the building including patient wards and medical areas while learning about its chilling past.

4. Byberry Mental Hospital (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania): Once infamous for its deplorable conditions and mistreatment of patients, Byberry Mental Hospital closed in 1990 after decades of controversy. Today, some buildings have been demolished with plans to repurpose others for residential use while preserving their historical significance.

5. Eloise Psychiatric Hospital (Westland, Michigan): Named after Eloise Dickerson Davocko—whose family donated land for the hospital—Eloise Psychiatric Hospital operated from 1839 until 1984 when it closed permanently. Restoration efforts are underway to transform this sprawling complex into a mixed-use development, preserving some buildings as historic landmarks.

6. Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital (Morris Plains, New Jersey): Built in the late 19th century and once one of the largest psychiatric hospitals in the United States, Greystone Park closed its doors in 2008. The site is now undergoing restoration with plans for adaptive reuse that include apartments, retail spaces, and a community center.

7. Traverse City State Hospital (Traverse City, Michigan): Originally known as the Northern Michigan Asylum for the Insane, this asylum opened its doors in 1885 and operated until 1989. It has since been transformed into an upscale resort called The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Visitors can explore preserved sections of the asylum while enjoying restaurants, shops, and even wine tasting rooms.

8. Willard Asylum for the Chronic Insane (Willard, New York): Established in 1869 and operating until 1995 when it closed due to changing mental health practices, Willard Asylum offers a glimpse into its history through guided tours offered by local historical societies. Efforts are ongoing to preserve this piece of history through educational programs and exhibits.

These eight asylum restoration projects not only offer opportunities for urban exploration but also serve as reminders of society’s evolving approach towards mental health treatment over time. Whether you’re intrigued by their architectural beauty or captivated by their dark pasts, these restored asylums provide glimpses into forgotten chapters of our collective history while promoting preservation and understanding.