The Inception and Early Years of Metropolitan State Hospital
At the dawn of the 20th century, Massachusetts was at the forefront of a significant shift in mental health care. The state legislature, recognizing the need for a more centralized approach to mental health, passed a law in 1900 that mandated the state’s responsibility for the care of the mentally ill.
This was a departure from the previous system, where care was often handled at the local level, leading to inconsistencies and gaps in treatment.
This legislation established the Metropolitan State Hospital, a facility that would become a beacon of mental health care in the region.
The site selection process for this new hospital was lengthy until 1926. This delay was due to the meticulous consideration of this decision, ensuring that the location would suit the hospital’s critical mission.
Once a location was chosen, spanning parts of Waltham, Lexington, and Belmont, the ground was broken on the hospital buildings.
The facility was formally dedicated two years later, in 1928, and opened its doors to patients on October 29, 1930. The hospital’s opening marked a new era in mental health care, providing a dedicated space for treatment and care.
Architecture and Design: Reflecting the Evolution of Mental Health Care
The design of the Metropolitan State Hospital was a testament to the evolving understanding of mental health care at the time. It reflected the third stage of development for mental health facilities, following the Kirkbride Plan and the cottage/colony system.
These earlier models were based on the belief that the environment could play a role in mental health, and the design of the Metropolitan State Hospital continued this tradition.
The hospital’s design also marked the growing importance of roads as significant transport arteries, as it was not located near railroad lines. This was a considerable shift, reflecting the changing landscape of transportation and its impact on accessibility to health care.
The buildings were designed in the Colonial Revival style by architect Gordon Robb. This architectural style, characterized by symmetry and simplicity, created a calming and orderly patient environment.
The landscaping was based on principles laid down by the Olmsted Brothers and executed by R. Hayward Loring. This thoughtful design created a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment, contributing to the patient’s well-being.
Patient Population and Services: Meeting the Community’s Needs
At its peak, the Metropolitan State Hospital was home to nearly 2,000 patients. This large patient population was a testament to the region’s significant need for mental health care services. The hospital provided a range of services to meet the diverse needs of its patients, making it a vital resource for the community.
The hospital was equipped to handle various mental health conditions, providing both short-term and long-term care. The staff included psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, and other professionals, all dedicated to providing comprehensive patient care.
The hospital also provided educational programs and occupational therapy, recognizing the importance of these elements in mental health recovery.
Notable Events: Tragedy and Triumph
The history of the Metropolitan State Hospital is marked by notable events that reflect the challenges and complexities of mental health care.
One such event was the tragic murder of patient Anne Marie Davee in 1978. This incident was a stark reminder of the need for ongoing improvements in patient safety and care.
Despite such tragedies, the hospital also had many triumphs. It was often at the forefront of new treatment methods and approaches, constantly striving to improve patient care. The hospital’s commitment to innovation and improvement was a testament to its dedication to its mission.
Closure and Aftermath: The End of an Era
In 1992 the Metropolitan State Hospital was closed as part of a broader deinstitutionalization movement. This policy shift, driven by a desire to provide more community-based care, led to the closure of most state mental hospitals in Massachusetts.
The impact of this closure was felt deeply by patients and the local community, marking the end of an era in mental health care.
The closure of the hospital was met with mixed reactions. While some saw it as a necessary step towards modernizing mental health care, others mourned the loss of a vital community resource. The hospital’s closure also raised concerns about the fate of its patients, many of whom were moved into smaller group settings.
Redevelopment and Current Status: A New Chapter
After lying unused for 15 years, redevelopment of the hospital site began in 2007. Some of the hospital’s residential wards were repurposed for conventional residential use as part of a larger apartment complex development known as Avalon at Lexington Hills. The Administration Building, a notable feature of the original hospital, still stands in Waltham.
Today, the former hospital site blends the old and the new. Some of the original buildings have been incorporated into the latest development, while others serve as reminders of the site’s past.
The extensive wooded grounds are now open to the public and protected from further development, offering a peaceful retreat for residents.
Conclusion: Reflecting on the Legacy
The story of the Metropolitan State Hospital is a reflection of the evolution of mental health care in Massachusetts and beyond. The hospital has undergone significant changes from its founding to its closure and subsequent redevelopment. Yet, its legacy lives on, serving as a reminder of the past and a beacon for the future of mental health care.
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