Kirkbride Buildings - Historic Insane Asylums Forum

Well, this is only my opinion, but it is bad news. A friend on a UE forum recently was inside the Admin./Clocktower and showed me his photos. They were about 5 times worse than what I was expecting. Saw lots of floors the have collapsed, major water damage, and the worst; crumbling exterior walls (that you don't notice in exterior photos).

I sure hope they secure funds and do something quick as, in my opinion this place won't last too much longer in it's current condition.


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It's scary to think how close all the new construction work will be. The groundbreaking ceremony took place today. I won't be surprised if there's a substantial structural collapse in the clocktower at some point due to all the construction activity as it progresses.

Psychiatric Hospital Breaks Ground

Low Bid Climate in Construction Industry

With them doing nothing to stabilize the Admin. it makes you think that maybe they are hoping the construction does some damage and gives them good reason to pull it down like everything else.

I walked through the clock tower doors at the age of 17. It was my first job and I couldn't get over how beautiful the building was with its arched columns and brickwork. For the next 40 years I worked for the Department of Mental Health and learned a lot about the goings on at Worcester State Hospital. I saw things that no human being should have to witness and no human being should have been subjected to. Should I ever sit down and write a book heads would roll and reputations would be tarnished beyond belief.... I was saddened when we had to move to the "new" building. Worcester State Hospital is the oldest hospital of its kind and should have been saved at any cost. I believe I know why there was a fire and feel I know who was responsible. I once believed this Hospital was place on the Register of Historic Landmarks. It didn't do any good as big money and business always seem to win out. I "grew up" at WSH and it breaks my heart to think this landmark might fall prey to a wrecking ball.

Hi Dennis. Welcome to the forum. I'm sure we'd be fascinated with stories from your career at WSH. Please share if you don't mind.

I'll second that Dennis. Even if you don't end up writing a book we'd love to hear some of your stories here.

I would definitely be interested as well!