June 8th, 2009
Terrell State Hospital Book Published
A gentleman named Benny Britton has published a book chronicling the history of Terrell State Hospital in Texas. Britton has been an employee of the hospital for forty-two years. Unfortunately, the book—which includes historic and current photos—does not appear to be available anywhere but at the hospital. If you’re in the Terrell area, there will be a book signing on Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at the state hospital Silver Star Cinema at 5:30PM where the book will be available for purchase. More information can be found in this article: Terrell State Hospital History Book Published. If I find out you can pick up the book online or in bookstores, I’ll post a follow-up.
There are a few photos from the book featured in the story about this book here History Book Published on TSH.
I live in Austin, TX. I really want a copy of Terrell State Hospital 1883-2008 by Benny Britton. My husband works for MHMR in Austin. He is an architect and oversees construction in State Hospitals. I saw a copy of this book and would very much like to purchase it for him for Christmas. Please help.
Thank you.
benny britton contact please my grandparents both worked there and john uncel was pt threr doing geneology thanks Rev. marie a uncel
Is it possible to contact Mr. Britton? My great grandmother was a patient there from 1895 until her death July 4, 1919. I know they don’t give out any patient information, however, I’m researching the history of the hospital for a series of short stories I am writing. She was a patient while the hospital was still called, “North Texas Hospital for the Insane.” One of her son-in-laws worked at the hospital while she was there. From all I have learned, I believe my grandmother suffered from severe PTSD and hormonal imbalance, common among many women going through menopause before hormone therapy was introduced much later on. I’ve always wondered about this possibility, because it wasn’t unusual or uncommon at all back then. Your readers might find this interesting: “Since 1885, the institution has had three names that reflect changes both in attitudes toward mental illness and approaches in treatment. The name North Texas Hospital for the Insane was adopted in 1888 and used until 1925 when Dr. George Powell, Superintendent, requested that the name be changed to Terrell State Hospital.” http://www.kirkbridebuildings.com/blog/terrell-state-hospital-book-published
I am interested in purchasing Mr. Britton’s book, and will contact the hospital, however, I’m also interested in speaking with anyone else who also had relatives there from its founding in 1888, until the 1920’s, or who worked there. Thank you for this post!