INSPIRATIONS
Characters:
Hygeia
La Belle France
Britannia
Columbia
The closing scene is in the nature of a processional symbolizing
international unity of purpose and a determination to pursue, until
finally attained, the goal of Health and Happiness, personified by
the goddess Hygeia.
Music: Orchestra
"Marseillaise"
"God Save the King"
"Battle Hymn of the Republic"
"The Star Spangled Banner"
"Tammany"
NAMES OF THOSE WHO ATTENDED THE EXERCISES[19]
E. Stanley Abbot, M.D. Philadelphia, Pa.
Louise Acton White Plains, N.Y.
Elizabeth I. Adamson, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
William H. Alleé, M.D. Ridgefield, Conn.
Thaddeus H. Ames, M.D. New York City.
Mrs. George S. Amsden White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. Isadora Anschutz White Plains, N.Y.
Grosvenor Atterbury New York City.
Pearce Bailey, M.D. New York City.
Amos T. Baker, M.D. Bedford Hills, N.Y.
Mrs. Amos T. Baker Bedford Hills, N.Y.
Lewellys F. Barker, M.D. Baltimore, Md.
Clifford W. Beers New York City.
Christopher C. Beling, M.D. Newark, N.J.
Harrison Betts, M.D. Yonkers, N.Y.
Anna T. Bingham, M.D. New York City.
Mrs. Martha Bird Middletown, N.Y.
Charles E. Birch, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
J. Fielding Black, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. J. Fielding Black White Plains, N.Y.
G. Alder Blumer, M.D. Providence, R.I.
Leonard Blumgart, M.D. New York City.
J. Arthur Booth, M.D. New York City.
Miss Helen Booth New York City.
S.M. Boyd Scarsdale, N.Y.
Mrs. S.M. Boyd Scarsdale, N.Y.
Mrs. Sidney C. Borg New York City.
Rose Bell Bradley New York City.
V.C. Branham, M.D. New York City.
Holly Brown White Plains, N.Y.
Helen Brown, M.D. New York City.
Sanger Brown, 2d, M.D. New York City.
Miss Elizabeth O. Buckingham Chicago, Ill.
Alfred C. Buckley, M.D. Frankford, Philadelphia, Pa.
Alice Gates Bugbee, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Jesse C.M. Bullowa, M.D. New York City.
William Browning, M.D. Brooklyn, N.Y.
Marie von H. Byers New York City.
Karl M. Bowman, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. Karl M. Bowman White Plains, N.Y.
Edna L. Byington White Plains, N.Y.
C.N.B. Camac, M.D. New York City.
C. Macfie Campbell, M.D. Boston, Mass.
Mrs. C. Macfie Campbell, M.D. Boston, Mass.
Robert Carroll, M.D. Asheville, N.C.
Mrs. Robert Carroll Asheville, N.C.
Louis Casamajor, M.D. New York City.
Ross McC. Chapman, M.D. Towson, Md.
Helen Childs White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. Anne Choate Pleasantville, N.Y.
E.H. Clarke New York City.
Miss Marjory Clark, R.N. New York City.
Joseph Collins, M.D. New York City.
Michael Collins White Plains, N.Y.
Arthur S. Corwin, M.D. Rye, N.Y.
Mrs. Margaret Cornwell New Rochelle, N.Y.
Henry A. Cotton, M.D. Trenton, N.J.
Edith Cox White Plains, N.Y.
C. Burns Craig, M.D. New York City.
Henry W. Crane New York City.
Raymond S. Crispell, M.D. New York City.
Mrs. Seymour Cromwell Mendham, N.Y.
Hugh S. Cummings, M.D.,
Surgeon-General U.S.
Public Health Service Washington, D.C.
Charles L. Dana, M.D. New York City.
Thomas K. Davis, M.D. New York City.
Henderson Brooke Deady, M.D. New York City.
John W. Dean White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. Aline S. Devin Eliot, Maine.
Allen Ross Diefendorf, M.D. New Haven, Conn.
William Elliott Dold, M.D. Astoria, L.I., N.Y.
George Drake White Plains, N.Y.
John W. Draper, M.D. New York City.
Nataline Dullas White Plains, N.Y.
Charles S. Dunlap, M.D. New York City.
Mrs. Alfred F. DeNike White Plains, N.Y.
R. Condit Eddy, M.D. New Rochelle, N.Y.
Joseph P. Eidson, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. Emma Eldridge Tuckahoe, N.Y.
Charles A. Elsberg, M.D. New York City.
William Else, M.D. New York City.
Everett S. Elwood,
Secretary State
Hospital Commission Albany, New York.
Mrs. Ezra H. Fitch New York City.
Ralph P. Folsom, M.D. New York City.
Harold E. Foster, M.D. Boston, Mass.
Diana Fowler White Plains, N.Y.
Florence Fuller White Plains, N.Y.
Isaac J. Furman, M.D. New York City.
Leslie Gager, M.D. New York City.
William C. Garvin, M.D. Kings Park, N.Y.
Arnold Gesell, M.D. New Haven, Conn.
Bernard Glueck, M.D. New York City.
J. Riddle Goffe, M.D. New York City.
S. Philip Goodhart, M.D. New York City.
Miss Annie W. Goodrich, R.N. New York City.
Phyllis Greenacre, M.D. Baltimore, Md.
Menas S. Gregory, M.D. New York City.
Miss Pauline P. Gunderson White Plains, N.Y.
Louis J. Haas White Plains, N.Y.
Thomas H. Haines, M.D. New York City.
Miss Dorothy Hale New York City.
Miss Natalie Hall White Plains, N.Y.
Robert B. Hammond, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Miss Elisa Hansen White Plains, N.Y.
Milton A. Harrington, M.D. Alfred, N.Y.
Isham G. Harris, M.D. Brooklyn, N.Y.
George A. Hastings New York City.
Winifred Hathaway New York City.
Edna Haverstock White Plains, N.Y.
C. Floyd Haviland, M.D. Middletown, Conn.
F. Ross Haviland, M.D. Brooklyn, N.Y.
Charles E. Haynes, M.D. New York City.
Eunice W. Haydon New York City.
Miss Katherine F. Hearn, R.N. White Plains, N.Y.
Edna Hemingson White Plains, N.Y.
George W. Henry, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. George W. Henry White Plains, N.Y.
Marcus B. Heyman, M.D. New York City.
Beatrice M. Hinkle, M.D. New York City.
L.E. Hinsie, M.D. New York City.
P.F. Hoffman, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
John F. Holden, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Hubert S. Howe, M.D. New York City.
Thomas Howell, M.D. New York City.
J. Ramsay Hunt, M.D. New York City.
Helen Hunt White Plains, N.Y.
Miss Augusta M. Huppuch New York City.
Richard H. Hutchings, M.D. Utica, N.Y.
Frank N. Irwin, M.D. New York City.
Martha Joffe White Plains, N.Y.
Walter B. James, M.D. New York City.
Mrs. Walter James White Plains, N.Y.
Professor Pierre Janet, M.D. Paris, France.
Madame Pierre Janet Paris, France.
M.E. Jarvis, M.D. New York City.
Rev. Oscar Jarvis White Plains, N.Y.
Walter Jennings Cold Spring Harbor, L.I., N.Y.
Miss Gudron Johannessen, R.N. White Plains, N.Y.
Miss Marguerite Jewell White Plains, N.Y.
Miss Florence M. Johnson. New York City.
Kenneth B. Jones, M.D. Thiells, N.Y.
Miss Minnie Jordan, R.N. New York City.
Mrs. De Lancey A. Kane New Rochelle, N.Y.
Lilian A. Kelm New York City.
James P. Kelleher, M.D. New York City.
Foster Kennedy, M.D. New York City.
Marion E. Kenworthy, M.D. New York City.
John Joseph Kindred, M.D. Astoria, L.I., N.Y.
George W. King, M.D. Secaucus, N.J.
Hermann G. Klotz, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
George W. Kline, M.D. Boston, Mass.
George H. Kirby, M.D. New York City.
Henry Klopp, M.D. Allentown, Pa.
Augustus S. Knight, M.D. New York City.
Frank Henry Knight, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Mary S. Kirkbride Albany, N.Y.
Walter M. Kraus, M.D. New York City.
Edward J. Kempf, M.D. New York City.
Alexander Lambert, M.D. New York City.
Charles I. Lambert, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. Charles I. Lambert White Plains, N.Y.
Arthur G. Lane, M.D. Greystone Park, N.J.
G. Alfred Lawrence, M.D. New York City.
W.A. Lawrence, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Ruth W. Lawton White Plains, N.Y.
Helen Letson White Plains, N.Y.
Samuel Leopold, M.D. Philadelphia, Pa.
Maurice J. Lewi, M.D. New York City.
Mrs. Maurice J. Lewi New York City.
Miss Ella H. Lowe White Plains, N.Y.
Walter E. Lowthian, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
F.R. Lyman, M.D. Hastings-on-Hudson, N.Y.
Samuel B. Lyon, M.D. New York City.
Winslow Lyon New York City.
William H. McCastline, M.D. New York City.
John T. McCurdy, M.D. New York City.
Carlos F. MacDonald, M.D. New York City.
D.W. McFarland, M.D. Greens Farms, Conn.
Miss Eliza Macdonald Flushing, L.I., N.Y.
John W. Mackintosh White Plains, N.Y.
Daniel W. Maloney White Plains, N.Y.
Grace F. Marcus, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
L. Markham, M.D. Amityville, N.Y.
Miss Anna Maxwell, R.N. New York City.
John F.W. Meagher, M.D. Brooklyn, N.Y.
Adolf Meyer, M.D. Baltimore, Md.
Carlos J. Miller, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Henry W. Miller, M.D. Brewster, N.Y.
Mrs. R. Van C. Miller New York City.
George W. Mills, M.D. Central Islip, N.Y.
Henry Moffett, M.D. Yonkers, N.Y.
Mrs. Maude G. Moody New York City.
Miss Madeline Moore White Plains, N.Y.
Joseph W. Moore, M.D. Beacon, N.Y.
Eugene T. Morrison, M.D. New Rochelle, N.Y.
Miss Cecil Morrison White Plains, N.Y.
Richard W. Moriarty, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Herman Mortensen, R.N. White Plains, N.Y.
Walter W. Mott, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Florence Munn White Plains, N.Y.
Theodore W. Neumann, M.D. Central Valley, N.Y.
Ethan A. Nevin, M.D. Newark, N.J.
Miss Christine M. Nuno New York City.
George O'Hanlon, M.D. New York City.
James M. O'Neill Harrison, N.Y.
Herman Ostrander, M.D. Kalamazoo, Mich.
Mary F. O'Grady White Plains, N.Y.
Flavius Packer, M.D. Riverdale, N.Y.
Mrs. Flavius Packer Riverdale, N.Y.
Irving H. Pardee, M.D. New York City.
Jason S. Parker, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Frederick W. Parsons, M.D. Buffalo, N.Y.
Miss Margaret Patin White Plains, N.Y.
Stewart Paton, M.D. Princeton, N.J.
Christopher J. Patterson, M.D. Troy, N.Y.
Guy Payne, M.D. Cedar Grove, N.J.
Arthur M. Phillips, M.D. New York City.
Charles W. Pilgrim, M.D., Chairman,
State Hospital Commission, N.Y. Central Valley, N.Y.
Mason Pitman, M.D. Riverdale-on-Hudson, N.Y.
Miss Leah Pitman White Plains, N.Y.
Miss Adele S. Poston, R.N. White Plains, N.Y.
Howard W. Potter, M.D. Thiells, N.Y.
Wilson M. Powell New York City.
Mrs. Margaret J. Powers New York City.
Miss Nina Prey New York City.
W.B. Pritchard, M.D. New York City.
Morton Prince, M.D. Boston, Mass.
Rose Pringle, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Sylvanus Purdy, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Paul R. Radosvljevich, M.D. New York City.
E. Benjamin Ramsdell, M.D. New York City.
Edwin G. Ramsdell, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Mortimer W. Raynor, M.D. New York City.
Lawrence F. Rainsford, M.D. Rye, N.Y.
Mrs. Lawrence F. Rainsford Rye, N.Y.
Henry A. Riley, M.D. New York City.
Miss Elise Reilly White Plains, N.Y.
Frank W. Robertson, M.D. New York City.
M.A. Robinson, M.D. New York City.
William C. Roden, R.N. White Plains, N.Y.
A.J. Rosanoff, M.D. Kings Park, N.Y.
Miss Catherine Ross, R.N. White Plains, N.Y.
John T.W. Rowe, M.D. New York City.
Richard G. Rows, M.D. London, England.
Frederick D. Ruland, M.D. Westport, Conn.
William L. Russell, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. William L. Russell White Plains, N.Y.
Earnest F. Russell, M.D. New York City.
Paul L. Russell White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. Paul L. Russell White Plains, N.Y.
Walter G. Ryon, M.D. Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
Miss Helen K. Ryce Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
Miss Helen Sayre White Plains, N.Y.
Thomas W. Salmon, M.D. New York City.
Mrs. Thomas W. Salmon New York City.
Irving J. Sands, M.D. Brooklyn, N.Y.
James P. Sands, M.D. Philadelphia, Pa.
William C. Sandy, M.D. New York City.
Miss E. Saul New York City.
William G. Schauffler, M.D. Princeton, N.J.
Paul Schlegman, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
H. Ernest Schmid, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Miss Gertrude Schmid White Plains, N.Y.
Augusta Scott, M.D. New York City.
Major Louis L. Seaman, M.D. New York City.
Edward W. Sheldon New York City.
George Sherrill, M.D. Stamford, Conn.
Miss Eloise Shields, R.N. White Plains, N.Y.
Lewis M. Silver, M.D. New York City.
Mrs. A. Slesingle New York City.
Mrs. Anna C. Schermerhorn New York City.
Rev. Frank H. Simmonds White Plains, N.Y.
Clarence J. Slocum, M.D. Beacon, N.Y.
Mrs. Clarence J. Slocum Beacon, N.Y.
Augustine J. Smith New York City.
Miss M. Smith, R.N. Titusville, Pa.
Philip Smith, M.D. New York City.
Rev. George H. Smyth Scarsdale, N.Y.
D. Austin Sniffen, D.D. White Plains, N.Y.
John D. Southworth, M.D. New York City.
Edith E. Spaulding, M.D. New York City.
M. Allen Starr, M.D. New York City.
Samuel A. Steele White Plains, N.Y.
William Steinach, M.D. New York City.
George S. Stevenson, M.D. New York City.
Adolf Stern, M.D. New York City.
Emil Strateman White Plains, N.Y.
Israel Strauss, M.D. New York City.
Frank K. Sturgis New York City.
Miss Mary Ruth Swann, R.N. Washington, D.C.
C.C. Sweet, M.D. Ossining, N.Y.
Sarah Swift White Plains, N.Y.
William B. Terhune, M.D. New Haven, Conn.
William J. Tiffany, M.D. New York City.
Walter Clark Tilden, M.D. Hartsdale, N.Y.
Frederick Tilney, M.D. New York City.
Walter Timme, M.D. New York City.
Howard Townsend New York City.
E. Clark Tracy, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Walter L. Treadway, M.D. Washington, D.C.
Miss Gertrude Trefrey, R.N. White Plains, N.Y.
Miss Mary G. Urquhart White Plains, N.Y.
J.L. Van deMark, M.D. Albany, N.Y.
T.J. Vosburgh, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Henry J. Vier, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Emory M. Wadsworth, M.D. Brooklyn, N.Y.
Miss Lillian D. Wald, R.N. New York City.
Professor Howard C. Warren Princeton, N.J.
Mrs. Caroline E. Washburn White Plains, N.Y.
Miss Martha Washburn White Plains, N.Y.
G.F. Washburne, M.D. Hastings-on-Hudson, N.Y.
Chester Waterman, M.D. New York City.
James J. Waygood, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. James J. Waygood White Plains, N.Y.
R.G. Wearne, M.D. New York City.
Edward W. Weber, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
Israel S. Wechsler, M.D. New York City.
Miss Kathryn I. Wellman. White Plains, N.Y.
Mrs. Adelyn Wesley New York City.
Lt. Col. Arthur W. Whaley, M.D. New York City.
Mrs. Arthur W. Whaley New York City.
Miss Margaret Wheeler Short Hills, N.J.
Payne Whitney New York City.
Frankwood E. Williams, M.D. New York City.
Rodney R. Williams, M.D. Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
O.J. Wilsey, M.D. Amityville, N.Y.
John E. Wilson, M.D. New York City.
Miss A. Wilson New York City.
J.M. Winfield, M.D. Brooklyn, N.Y.
G. Howard Wise New York City.
Miss Frances E. Wood White Plains, N.Y.
Robert C. Woodman, M.D. Middletown, N.Y.
Robert S. Woodworth, Ph.D. New York City.
Rev. John C. York Brooklyn, N.Y.
Edwin G. Zabriskie, M.D. New York City.
Charles C. Zacharie, M.D. White Plains, N.Y.
FOOTNOTES:
[Footnote 19: If any names are omitted it is because these names and
addresses were not obtained.]
APPENDICES
APPENDIX I
COMMUNICATIONS FROM DR. BEDFORD PIERCE, MEDICAL SUPERINTENDENT OF THE
RETREAT, YORK, ENGLAND
May 5th, 1921.
DEAR DR. RUSSELL:
I have read with much pleasure your pamphlet giving the history of
Bloomingdale Hospital. The reproduction in facsimile of Thomas Eddy's
communication[20] is especially interesting and it will be placed with
the records of the early days of the Retreat.
We have looked through the Minutes, which are complete from the opening
of the Retreat in 1796, and also examined a large number of original
letters of William and Samuel Tuke respecting the Institution, but have
not succeeded in tracing the letter from S. Tuke to William Eddy, to
which you refer. As you are probably aware, S. Tuke was the grandson of
William Tuke, the founder, and when he published the History of the
Retreat in 1812 he was but twenty-eight years of age. This book had a
far-reaching influence on the treatment of the insane, and it is
remarkable that a man untrained in medicine and without university
education should have been able to write it. The book is now very rare,
but as we have three duplicate copies, I am authorized by the Directors
of the Retreat to present your Hospital with one of them. I have already
sent you a copy of an address of my own dealing with Psychiatry in
England at about the time your Hospital was instituted.
The use of the term "moral treatment" as opposed to treatment of
physical disease has in recent years become especially interesting. It
is clear that Tuke and Pinel foresaw that psychotherapeutic treatment is
necessary, and their efforts were directed towards providing effective
"sublimation" of misdirected psychical energy.
One is pleased to see in your report the extent to which organized
occupations are developed at Bloomingdale--a pleasure not unmixed with
envy at seeing the picture of the men's occupational pavilion, and the
prospective erection of a similar building for women.
In the early days of the Retreat large numbers of visitors came from all
parts of the world. There is a gap in the Visitors' Book between
1800-1815, and the list of visitors is not complete.
We have copied out the names of the American Visitors, together with an
entry by John W. Francis, M.D., in 1815. It is interesting to note that
an American woman Friend, Hannah Field, was accompanied to the Retreat
by Elizabeth Fry. In 1818 a party of North American Indians visited the
Retreat and signed the Visitors' Book with pictorial representations of
their names. These we have had photographed and I send the prints
herewith.
May I congratulate you on the centenary of your Hospital and also
congratulate you and the Governors on its remarkable development and
progress. Here at the Retreat we carry on using the original buildings
still, striving to give our patients modern treatment in premises now
almost ancient, but which do not appear so out of date in this City of
York. York congratulates New York upon its wonderful prosperity, and we
gladly recognize its development in the practice of psychiatry fully
corresponds with its development in other directions.
I remain,
Yours sincerely,
BEDFORD PIERCE.
EXTRACT FROM MINUTES OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE RETREAT
The Retreat, York
Meeting of Directors held on April the 30th, 1921
Copy of Minute No. 8
At this Meeting of the Directors and Agents of York Retreat we hear with
pleasure that the Bloomingdale Hospital, the section of the Society of
the New York Hospital devoted to the Treatment of Mental Diseases, is to
celebrate next month the centenary of its foundation. The facsimile
reproduction of the letter of Thomas Eddy which has been presented to
the Retreat Library is specially interesting to us as it acknowledges
the pioneer work at the Retreat and specially refers to correspondence
with Samuel Tuke. We have pleasure in sending to the Governors of the
Bloomingdale Hospital a copy of Samuel Tuke's classical work "The
Description of the Retreat" in the belief that the principles therein
set forth are of lasting importance. We send our hearty congratulations
to the Bloomingdale Hospital on its century of good work and wish it
every success in the future.
Signed,
CHARLES WEOMANS, _Chairman_.
OSCAR F. RUMLEN, _Treasurer_.
* * * * *
TRANSCRIPT FROM THE VISITORS BOOK OF THE RETREAT
EARLY AMERICAN VISITORS
1803. 3 mon 11th. _Abrm. Barker_, New Bedford, Massachusits, a young man
(a Friend) on a tour; has been in Russia, Denmark, Sweden &
Holland. (In William Tuke's writing)
1815. Nov. 30. _John W. Francis_, M.D. of N. York. J.W. Francis is not
wholly ignorant of the State of the Lunatic Asylums in North
America, and he has visited almost all the institutions for the
Insane that are established in England. He now embraces this
opportunity of stating that after an examination of the Retreat
for some hours, he should do injustice to his feelings were he
not to declare that this establishment far surpasses anything of
the kind he has elsewhere seen, and that it reflects equal credit
on the wisdom and humanity of its conductors.
Perhaps it is no inconsiderable honour to add that institutions
of a similar nature and on the same plan are organizing in
different parts of the United States. The New World cannot do
better than imitate the old so far as concerns the management of
those who labour under mental infirmities. J.W.F.
1816. 1 Mon 4. _Sharon Carter_, Philadelphia.
1816. 1 mon. _Wm. S. Warder_, from Philadelphia.
1816. 2 mon 21. Rev. Thomas H. Gallaudet, who visits Europe for the
purpose of qualifying himself to superintend an Asylum for the
Deaf and Dumb, proposed to be established in Hartford,
Connecticut, of the United States of America.
1816. 4 mon 8th. _Archibald Gracie_, Junr., New York.
1816. April 29th. _George F. Randolph_, Philadelphia. _John Hastings_,
Baltimore.
1816. 6 mon 19th. _Charles Longstreth_, from Philadelphia.
1816. 6 mon 19th. _Jacob Smedley_, from Philadelphia.
1817. 7 mon. _Henry Kollock_, of Savannah, Georgia.
_Dr. Wm. Parker_, Savannah.
_G.C. Versslanchi_, of New York.
1817. 11/24. _Hannah Field_, North America, with Elizabeth Fry.
1817. 12 Mo. _G.J. Browne_, United States of America (Cincinnati).
[Illustration: [*HANDWRITING: Thy Assured Friend, Thomas Eddy*]
In 1815 Thomas Eddy, one of the Governors of the Society of the New York
Hospital, presented a communication in which he advocated the
establishment in the country of a branch for the moral treatment of the
insane. This led to the establishment of Bloomingdale Asylum.]
FOOTNOTES:
[Footnote 20: Bloomingdale Hospital Press.]
APPENDIX II
A LETTER ON PAUPER LUNATIC ASYLUMS[21]
The Governors of the New York Hospital, conceiving that the very
judicious remarks and sentiments contained in the following letter,
might be highly useful to the community, as well as to the institution
with which they are connected, have requested the same to be published.
The work alluded to in the letter, called, "Practical hints on the
construction and economy of Pauper Asylums," is believed to be one of
the most valuable and interesting works of the kind ever published. This
work was sent by the author to one of the Governors, and is now
deposited in the Hospital library. It is very desirable that it should
be republished in this country; but as such republication would be
expensive, on account of the few copies that would be wanted, the
Governors have directed, that if any person, or trustees of any public
institution, in any part of the United States, should be desirous of
obtaining a copy of this very valuable work, with a view to aid them in
erecting a similar Asylum, or the improvement of any already
established, that a manuscript copy shall be furnished them, upon an
application to the subscriber,
THOMAS EDDY.
New-York, 12th month, 30th, 1815.
YORK, 7mo. 17th, 1815.
To Thomas Eddy,
Our mutual friend, L. Murray, has put into my hands a letter and
pamphlet, lately received from thee, respecting the erection of an
asylum for lunatics near New-York.[22] He has wished me to make any
remarks which may occur to me on the perusal; but, having just
published a few hints on the construction and economy of Pauper Lunatic
Asylums, which contain much of the information thou requests, I shall
have but little to add. Those hints, however, relating to institutions
for the poorest class of society, must be applied with some
modifications to establishments for persons of different pervious
habits, and for whom a greater portion of attendance can be afforded.
The great objects, however, which are stated in the hints to be so
important for the comfort of lunatics, apply equally to those of all
ranks and classes.
From the sum you propose to receive from the patients, intended to
occupy the new building, I conclude you are providing for patients of
the middle ranks of life, a class hardly less to be commiserated, when
thus afflicted, than the very poorest, since the expense and difficulty
of private management, may bring to ruin a respectable family, as well
as expose it to great personal dangers. There would, I think, be
considerable objection to the accumulation of 40 patients of this class,
in three contiguous rooms, as proposed in the hints for pauper lunatics.
You purpose building for 50 patients, and as you probably intend to
accommodate both sexes, the number of each sex may be very suitable for
the accommodation of three contiguous rooms, which, of course, need not
be so large as those in the Wakefield Asylum. It would be difficult to
offer a detailed plan, without knowing more than we do of your local
circumstances, and the classes of patients you purpose to admit. I
doubt, however, whether you can do better than to adopt the general form
of the Wakefield Asylum, and as you are providing for only a small
number, it deserves consideration whether all the rooms might not be
advantageously placed on the ground floor. This plan affords great
facilities to easy inspection, and safe communication with airing
grounds, and the roof might project so far over the building, as to form
an excellent collonnade for the patients; which seems peculiarly
desirable under an American Sun.
With these views, I send a sketch drawn by the Architect whose plan is
to be adopted at Wakefield; and though it may not be, in many respects,
adapted to your particular wants, yet I hope it will not be altogether
useless. Should it be thought too expensive, I think the rooms, 1, 2,
and 3, might be dispensed with, and rooms marked "attendants, sick and
bath," might be appropriated to the patients during the day. The
attendants room is not a requisite, though it has been thought that it
would be more agreeable to patients of superior rank, not to have the
society of a servant. This, however, chiefly applies to the
convalescents, and these might occupy the room marked 'sick', whilst the
middle class, and the attendants, would be in the centre, marked
"attendants." A sick and bath room might probably be obtained in the
galleries: if you are inclined for the sake of appearance, to make the
centre building two stories high, you might bring the wings nearer to
the centre, and accommodate most of the convalescent patients with bed
rooms in the upper story. In this case, perhaps it would be desirable to
give the wings a radiating form. You will however be best able to modify
the sketch to your particular wants, if the general idea should meet
your approbation.
I observe with pleasure, that one leading feature of your new
institution, is the introduction of employment amongst the patients, an
object which I am persuaded is of the utmost importance in the moral
treatment of insanity. It is related of an institution in Spain, which
accommodated all ranks, and in which the lower class were generally
employed, that a great proportion of these recovered, whilst the number
of the Grandees was exceedingly small. It will however, require great
address to induce patients to engage in manual labour, who have not been
accustomed to it previously to their indisposition, and it must be
admitted, that where the reluctance on the part of the patient is great,
the irritation which compulsory means are likely to excite, will
probably be more injurious to the patient, than the exercise will be
beneficial. The employment of insane persons should, as far as it is
practicable, be adapted to their previous habits, inclinations and
capacities, and, though horticultural pursuits may be most desirable,
the greatest benefit will, I believe, be found to result from the
patient being engaged in that employment in which he can most easily
excel, whether it be an active or a sedentary one. If it be the latter,
of course sufficient time should be allotted to recreation in the air.
Some persons imagine, that exercises of diversion, are equally
beneficial with those that are useful. The latter appear to me to
possess a decided preference, by imparting to the mind that calm feeling
of satisfaction, which the mere arts of amusement, though not to be
neglected, can never afford. To the melancholy class, this is an
important distinction between amusing and useful employments, and labour
is to be prefered for the maniacal class as less calculated to stimulate
the already too much excited spirits.
It is proposed that the new asylum should be placed a few miles from the
city. The visitors to it, (I do not mean the medical ones) will, I
presume, be residents in New-York, and from what I have seen of the zeal
of persons under such appointments in this country, it appears
desirable, to render the performance of this duty, so important for the
welfare of asylums, as easy as it can be with propriety. One mile
perhaps would not be objectionable, and might probably afford as good
air and retirement, as a greater distance.
I need hardly say, I was much gratified to find by the pamphlet, that
the importance of moral treatment in the cure of insanity, was duly
appreciated in America. When we consider, as Lord Bacon observes,
speaking of common diseases, that "all wise physicians in the
prescription, of their regimen to their patients, do ever consider
accidentia animi, as of great force to further or hinder remedies or
recoveries;" it is difficult to account for the general neglect of moral
considerations in the treatment of deranged mind. I hope, however,
though in many instances medicine may not be employed with advantage,
and its indiscriminate use has been seriously injurious, that we shall
not abandon it as altogether useless, in what we term disease of the
mind. All the varieties, included under this general term, have been
produced by physical causes: by external accidents, by intoxication, the
improper use of medicines, repelled eruptions, obstructed secretions,
&c. In some instances, dissection has discovered, after death, the cause
of the mental affection, and though, in many instances, no physical
cause can be detected, yet, when it is considered, how limited are the
investigations of the anatomist, and that the art is so imperfect, that
diseases occasioning instant death, cannot always be discovered on the
most minute dissection, it is not unreasonable to suppose, that the body
is in all cases the true seat of the disease.
All I would infer from this speculation is, the importance of having
judicious medical attendants, to watch the progress of the disorder, to
be ready to apply their art as bodily symptoms may arise, and to
ascertain, with greater precision than has hitherto been done, "how and
how far the humours and effects of the body, do alter and work upon the
mind; and how far the passions and apprehensions of the mind, do alter
and work upon the body." Even if the disease is not confined to the
corporal organs of mind, but extends to the pure and eternal
intelligence, medical aid may still be useful from the well known
reciprocal action of the two parts of our system upon each other.
I hope my unknown friend will excuse the length and freedom of this
letter: its length has much exceeded my intentions, yet I may have
omitted information which the experience of the Retreat might afford,
and which would have been useful to promoters of the New-York Asylum,
Should this be the case, I shall be glad to answer, as well as I am
able, any questions which they may propose; and, with the best wishes
for the success of their benevolent and important undertaking,
I remain, respectfully,
Thy friend,
SAMUEL TUKE.
FOOTNOTES:
[Footnote 21: A letter on Pauper Lunatic Asylums, by Samuel Tuke, New
York, 1815. Reprinted Bloomingdale Hospital Press, June 3, 1919.]
[Footnote 22: Appendix III.]
APPENDIX III
THOMAS EDDY'S COMMUNICATION TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS, APRIL, 1815[23]
Of the numerous topics of discussion on subjects relating to the cause
of humanity, there is none which has stronger claims to our attention,
than that which relates to the treatment of the insane.
Though we may reasonably presume, this subject was by no means
overlooked by the ancients, we may fairly conclude, it is deservedly the
boast of modern times, to have treated it with any degree of success.
It would have been an undertaking singularly interesting and
instructive, to trace the different methods of cure which have been
pursued in different ages, in the treatment of those labouring under
mental derangement: and to mark the various results with which they were
attended. The radical defect, in all the different modes of cure that
have been pursued, appears to be, that of considering mania a _physical_
or _bodily_ disease, and adopting for its removal merely physical
remedies. Very lately, however, a spirit of inquiry has been excited,
which has given birth to a new system of treatment of the insane; and
former modes of medical discipline have now given place to that which is
generally denominated _moral management_.
This interesting subject has closely engaged my attention for some
years, and I conceive that the further investigation of it may prove
highly beneficial to the cause of humanity, as well as to science, and
excite us to a minute inquiry, how far we may contribute to the relief
and comfort of the maniacs placed under our care. In pursuing this
subject, my views have been much extended, and my mind considerably
enlightened, by perusing the writings of Doctors Creighton, Arnold, and
Rush; but, more particularly, the account of the Retreat near York, in
England. Under these impressions I feel extremely desirous of submitting
to the consideration of the Governors, a plan to be adopted by them, for
introducing a system of moral treatment for the lunatics in the Asylum,
to a greater extent than has hitherto been in use in this country. The
great utility of confining ourselves almost exclusively to a course of
moral treatment, is plain and simple, and incalculably interesting to
the cause of humanity; and perhaps no work contains so many excellent
and appropriate observations on the subject, as that entitled, _The
Account of the Retreat_. The author, Samuel Tuke, was an active manager
of that establishment, and appears to have detailed, with scrupulous
care and minuteness, the effects of the system pursued toward the
patients. I have, therefore, in the course of the following remarks,
with a view of illustrating the subject with more clearness, often
adopted the language and opinions of Tuke, but having frequently mixed
my own observations with his, and his manner of expression not being
always adapted to our circumstances and situation, I have attempted to
vary the language, so as to apply it to our own institution; this will
account for many of the subsequent remarks not being noticed as taken
from Tuke's work.
It is, in the first place, to be observed, that in most cases of
insanity, from whatever cause it may have arisen, or to whatever extent
it may have proceeded, the patient possesses some small remains of
ratiocination and self-command; and although many cannot be made
sensible of the irrationality of their conduct or opinions, yet they are
generally aware of those particulars for which the world considers them
proper objects of confinement. Thus it frequently happens, that a
patient, on his first introduction into the asylum, will conceal all
marks of mental aberration; and, in some instances, those who before
have been ungovernable, have so far deceived their new friends, as to
make them doubt their being insane.
It is a generally received opinion, that the insane who are violent,
may be reduced to more calmness and quiet, by exciting the principle of
_fear_, and by the use of chains or corporal punishments. There cannot
be a doubt that the principle of fear in the human mind, when moderately
and judiciously excited, as it is by the operation of just and equal
laws, has a salutary effect on Society. It is of great use in the
education of children, whose imperfect knowledge and judgment, occasion
them to be less influenced by other motives. But where fear is _too
much_ excited, and especially, when it becomes the chief motive of
action, it certainly tends to contract the understanding, weaken the
benevolent affection, and to debase the mind. It is, therefore, highly
desirable, and more wise, to call into action, as much as possible, the
operation of superior motives. Fear ought never to be induced, except
when an object absolutely necessary cannot be otherwise obtained.
Maniacs are often extremely irritable; every care, therefore, should be
taken, to avoid that kind of treatment that may have any tendency
towards exciting the passions. Persuasion and kind treatment, will most
generally supersede the necessity of coercive means. There is
considerable analogy between the judicious treatment of children and
that of insane persons. Locke has observed "the great secret of
education is in finding out the way to keep the Child's Spirit easy,
active and free; and yet, at the same time, to restrain him from many
things he has a mind to, and to draw him to things which are uneasy to
him." Even with the more violent and vociferous maniacs, it will be
found best to approach them with mild and soft persuasion. Every pains
should be taken to excite in the patient's mind a desire of esteem.
Though this may not be sufficiently powerful to enable them to resist
the strong irregular tendency of their disease; yet, _when properly
cultivated_, it may lead many to struggle to overcome and conceal their
morbid propensities, or at least, to confine their deviations within
such bounds as do not make them obnoxious to those about them. This
struggle is highly beneficial to the patient; by strengthening his mind,
and conducing to a salutary habit of self-restraint, an object, no
doubt, of the greatest importance to the care of insanity by _moral
means_.
It frequently occurs, that one mark of insanity is a fixed false
conception, and a total incapacity of reasoning. In _such_ cases, it is
generally advisable to avoid reasoning[24] with them, as it irritates
and rivets their false perception more strongly on the mind. On this
account, every means ought to be taken to seduce the mind from unhappy
and favourite musings; and particularly with melancholic patients; they
should freely partake of bodily exercises, walking, riding,
conversations, innocent sports, and a variety of other amusements; they
should be gratified with birds, deer, rabbits, etc. Of all the modes by
which maniacs may be induced to restrain themselves, regular employment
is perhaps the most efficacious; and those kind of employments are to be
preferred, both on a moral and physical account, which are accompanied
by considerable bodily action, most agreeable to the patient, and most
opposite to the illusions of his disease.
In short the patient should be always treated as much like a rational
being as the state of his mind will possibly allow. In order that he may
display his knowledge to the best advantage, such topics should be
introduced as will be most likely to interest him; if he is a mechanic
or an agriculturalist, he should be asked questions relating to his art,
and consulted upon any occasion in which his knowledge may be useful.
These considerations are undoubtedly very material, as they regard the
comforts of insane persons; but they are of far greater importance as
they relate to the cure of the disorder. The patient, feeling himself of
some consequence, is induced to support it by the exertion of his
reason, and by restraining those dispositions, which, if indulged, would
lessen the respectful treatment he wishes to receive, or lower his
character in the eyes of his companions and attendants.
Even when it is absolutely necessary to employ coercion, if on its
removal the patient promises to control himself, great reliance may
frequently be placed upon his word, and under this engagement, he will
be apt to hold a successful struggle with the violent propensities of
his disorder. Great advantages may also be derived, in the moral
management of maniacs, from an acquaintance with the previous
employment, habits, manners, and prejudices of the individual: this may
truly be considered as indispensably necessary to be known, as far as
can be obtained; and, as it may apply to each case, should be registered
in a book for the inspection of the Committee of the Asylum, and the
physician; the requisite information should be procured immediately on
the admission of each patient; the mode of procuring it will be spoken
of hereafter.
Nor must we forget to call to our aid, in endeavouring to promote
self-restraint, the mild but powerful influence of the precepts of our
holy religion. Where these have been strongly imbued in early life, they
become little less than principles of our nature; and their restraining
power is frequently felt, even under the delirious excitement of
insanity. To encourage the influence of religious principles over the
mind of the insane, may be considered of great consequence, as a means
of cure, provided it be done _with great care and circumspection_. For
this purpose, as well as for reasons still more important, it would
certainly be right to promote in the patient, _as far as circumstances
would permit_, an attention to his accustomed modes of paying homage to
his Maker.
In pursuing the desirable objects above enumerated, we ought not to
expect too suddenly to reap the good effects of our endeavours; nor
should we too readily be disheartened by occasional disappointments. It
is necessary to call into action, as much as possible, every remaining
power and principle of the mind, and to remember, that, "in the wreck of
the intellect, the affections very frequently survive." Hence the
necessity of considering _the degree_ in which the patient may be
influenced by moral and rational inducements.
The contradictory features in their characters, frequently render it
exceedingly difficult to insure the proper treatment of insane persons;
to pursue this with any hopes of succeeding, so that we may in any
degree ameliorate their distressed condition, renders it indispensably
necessary that attendants only should be chosen who are possessed of
good sense, and of amiable dispositions, clothed, as much as possible,
with philosophical reflexion, and above all, with that love and charity
that mark the humble Christian.
Agreeably to these principles, I beg leave to suggest the following
regulations to be adopted, in accomplishing the objects in view.
1st. No patient shall hereafter be confined by chains.
2nd. In the most violent states of mania, the patient should be confined
in a room with the windows, etc., closed, so as nearly to exclude the
light, and kept confined if necessary, in a straight jacket, so as to
walk about the room or lie down on the bed at pleasure; or by strops,
etc., he may, particularly if there appears in the patient a strong
determination to self-destruction, be confined on the bed, and the
apparatus so fixed as to allow him to turn and otherwise change his
positions.
3rd. The power of judicious kindness to be generally exercised, may
often be blessed with good effects, and it is not till after other moral
remedies are exercised, that recourse should be had to restraint, or the
power of fear on the mind of the patient; yet it may be proper
sometimes, by way of punishment, to use the shower bath.
4th. The common attendants shall not apply any extraordinary coercion by
way of punishment, or change in any degree the mode of treatment
prescribed by the physician; on the contrary, it is considered as their
indispensable duty, to seek by acts of kindness the good opinion of the
patients, so as to govern them by the influence of esteem rather than of
severity.
5th. On the first day of the week, the Superintendent, or the principal
keeper of the Asylum, shall collect as many of the patients as may
appear to them suitable, and read some chapters in the Bible.
6th. When it is deemed necessary to apply the strait-jacket, or any
other mode of coercion, by way of punishment or restraint, such an ample
force should be employed as will preclude the idea of resistance from
entering the mind of the patient.
7th. It shall be the duty of the deputy-keeper, immediately on a patient
being admitted, to obtain his name, age, where born, what has been his
employment or occupation, his general disposition and habits, when first
attacked with mania; if it has been violent or otherwise, the cause of
his disease, if occasioned by religious melancholy, or a fondness for
ardent spirits, if owing to an injury received on any part of the body,
or supposed to arise from any other known cause, hereditary or
adventitious, and the name of the physician who may have attended him,
and his manner of treating the patient while under his direction.
8th. Such of the patients as may be selected by the physician, or the
Committee of the Asylum, shall be occasionally taken out to walk or ride
under the care of the deputy-keeper; and it shall be also his duty to
employ the patients in such manner, and to provide them with such kinds
of amusements and books as may be approved and directed by the
Committee.
9th. The female keeper shall endeavour to have the female patients
Constantly employed at suitable work; to provide proper amusements,
books, etc., to take them out to walk as may be directed by the
Committee.
10th. It shall be the indispensable duty of the keepers, to have all the
patients as clean as possible in their persons, and to preserve great
order and decorum when they sit down to their respective meals.
11th. It shall be the duty of the physician to keep a book, in which
shall be entered an historical account of each patient, stating his
situation, and the medical and moral treatment used; which book shall be
laid before the Committee, at their weekly meetings.
The sentiments and improvements proposed in the preceding remarks, for
the consideration of the Governors, are adapted to our present situation
and circumstances; but a further and more extensive improvement has
occurred to my mind, which I conceive, would very considerably conduce
towards affecting the cure, and materially ameliorate the condition, and
add to the comfort of the insane; at the same time that it would afford
an ample opportunity [Transcriber's note: original reads 'apportunity']
of ascertaining how far that disease may be removed by moral management
alone, which it is believed, will, in many instances, be more effectual
in controlling the maniac, than medical treatment especially, in those
cases where the disease has proceeded from causes operating directly on
the mind.
I would propose, that a lot, not less than ten acres, should be
purchased by the Governors, conveniently situated, within a few miles of
the city, and to erect a substantial building, on a plan calculated for
the accommodation of fifty lunatic patients; the ground to be improved
in such a manner as to serve for agreeable walks, gardens, etc., for the
exercise and amusement of the patients: this establishment might be
placed under the care and superintendence of the Asylum Committee, and
be visited by them once every week: a particular description of patients
to remain at this Rural Retreat; and such others as might appear
suitable objects might be occasionally removed there from the Asylum.
The cost and annual expense of supporting this establishment, are
matters of small consideration, when we duly consider the important
advantages it would offer to a portion of our fellow-creatures, who have
such strong claims on our sympathy and commiseration.
But, it is a fact that can be satisfactorily demonstrated, that such an
establishment would not increase our expenses; and, moreover, would
repay us even the interest of the money that might be necessary to be
advanced, for the purchase of the ground and erecting the buildings. The
board of patients (supposing fifty) would yield two hundred dollars per
week, or ten thousand four hundred dollars per annum.
Supposing the ground, building, etc., to cost $50,000, the interest on
this sum at 6 per cent. would be $3,000, there would yet remain $7,400,
for the maintenance and support of the establishment; a sum larger than
would be required for that purpose.
We had lately in the Asylum, more than ninety patients; and, at that
time, had repeated applications to receive an additional number; the
Committee however, concluded, that as the building was not calculated to
accommodate more than seventy-five, it would be an act of injustice to
take in any more; they, therefore, concluded to reduce the number of
seventy-five, and strictly to refuse receiving any beyond that number.
This may serve clearly to show, that we might safely calculate, that we
should readily have applications to accommodate one hundred and
twenty-five patients.
This succinct view of the subject may suffice, at this time, as outlines
of my plan; and which is respectfully submitted to the Governors, for
their Consideration.
FOOTNOTES:
[Footnote 23: "Hints for Introducing an Improved Mode of Treating the
Insane in the Asylum"; read before the Governors of the New York
Hospital on the 4th of Fourth-month, 1815. By Thomas Eddy, one of the
Asylum Committee. New York, 1815. Reprinted Bloomingdale Hospital Press,
1916.]
[Footnote 24: The following anecdotes illustrate the observation before
made, that maniacs frequently retain the power of reasoning to a certain
extent; and that the discerning physician may oftimes successfully avail
himself of the remains of this faculty in controlling the aberrations of
his patient:--A patient in the Pennsylvania Hospital, who called his
physician his father, once lifted his hand to strike him. "What!" said
his physician, (Dr. Rush), with a plaintive tone of voice, "Strike your
father?" The madman dropped his arm, and instantly showed marks of
contrition for his conduct. The following was related to me by Samuel
Coates, President of the Pennsylvania Hospital:--maniac had made several
attempts to set fire to the Hospital: upon being remonstrated with, he
said, "I am a salamander"; "but recollect," said my friend Coates, "all
the patients in the house are not salamanders;" "That is true," said the
maniac, and never afterwards attempted to set fire to the Hospital.]
APPENDIX IV
EXTRACTS FROM THE MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS IN RELATION TO
ACTION TAKEN RESPECTING THOS. EDDY'S COMMUNICATION DATED APRIL, 1815
_April 4, 1815._
A communication was received from Thos. Eddy suggesting several
improvements in the mode of treating Insane persons, which is referred
to Dr. Hugh Williamson, George Newbold, William Johnson, Peter A. Jay,
and John R. Murray--Resolved that the Treasurer have fifty copies of the
report printed for use of the Governors.
_July 3, 1815._
The Committee on the communication from Thos. Eddy, relative to the
treatment of Insane patients, report attention to the subject and that
in their opinion it is advisable to have a few acres of land purchased
in the vicinity of the City for the better accommodation of this unhappy
class of our fellow creatures--the Committee are continued.
On motion Resolved that Thomas Eddy, John A. Murray, and John Aspinwall,
be a Committee to look out for a suitable spot of land, and to make a
purchase, if in their opinion it shall become necessary.
_8th Month (August) 1st, 1815._
The Committee on the communication from Thomas Eddy, made the following
Report, which was intended to have been laid before the last meeting of
the Board; which was now accepted, and ordered to be inserted in the
minutes.
"The Committee appointed to consider the expediency of erecting another
Building for the accommodation of Insane Persons Report:
That another building for the use of those unfortunate persons who have
lost the use of their reason, is not only advisable, but seems to be
absolutely necessary.
That though there are at present more patients in the Asylum, by nearly
one third, than can with perfect Safety, and the best hopes of recovery,
be lodged there; many more insane persons, perhaps twenty within a few
months, have by their friends been soliciting a place in that
Building--In speaking of the want of safety, the Committee only mean to
express an opinion, that when two or more insane persons, from the want
of room are lodged together in one cell, the life of the weaker must be
somewhat endangered by the stronger, who in a high Paroxysm of insanity
might strangle him in his sleep, or otherwise destroy him.
That such additional Building, from the want of room, cannot possibly be
erected near the hospital, in this city.
That there are many reasons for believing that the recovery from a state
of insanity would be greatly promoted, by having a considerable space of
ground adjoining the Asylum or Public Building, in which many of the
patients might have the privilege of walking, or taking other kinds of
exercise.
That considering the various kinds of insanity, your Committee, are
clearly of the opinion, that two buildings should be erected at the
distance of at least one hundred yards from each other. The sedate or
melancholy madman should not have his slumbers broken by living under
the same roof with disorderly persons, who by singing, or other noisy
proceedings, will not suffer their neighbours to sleep.
That for the above and similar considerations, it would be advisable,
to purchase, within a few miles of this City, at least twenty acres of
land, detached from private buildings, in a healthy and pleasant
situation, where the water is good and where materials for buildings may
be obtained on easy terms: and the portage of fuel not expensive.
Your Committee are aware that a smaller lot of ground might suffice for
all the buildings that are now required, or all this Corporation may, in
a short time, be enabled to complete. But they count it advisable to
prepare for a period that must certainly come; a period in which such a
lot will be needed, and not easily obtained, for it is evident from the
topography, and geographical position of this City, that the time must
come, when New York will be not only the greatest City in the United
States, or in America; but must rival the most distinguished City's in
the old Continent.
Wherefore it is recommended, that a Committee be appointed, who shall
examine the sundry places, corresponding with the above description,
that may be purchased. And that they report the means of making the
purchase, and of erecting such Buildings, as seem at this time to be
required."
The Committee to whom was referred, to purchase a suitable Lot of Land
for the erection of a House for the accommodation of maniacs, Report
that they have purchased 38 acres of Land, being part of the Estate
belonging to Gerard Depeyster at Bloomingdale, at the rate of $246. per
acre, payable 25 per cent down, 37½ per cent on 1st November and 37¾ per
cent on 1st February next, with interest.
THOMAS EDDY, Chairman
August 1st, 1815
Whereupon Resolved that the Report of the Committee be accepted, and
they are instructed to take the Titles, after P.A. Jay shall have
examined the Records, and be satisfied that the property is free of
incumbrance.
APPENDIX V
ADDRESS TO THE PUBLIC BY THE GOVERNORS 1821[25]
The Governors of the New-York Hospital have the satisfaction to announce
to the public, the completion of the Asylum for the insane; and that it
will be open for the reception of patients, from any part of the United
States, on the first day of June.
This Asylum is situated on the Bloomingdale road, about seven miles from
the City Hall of the city of New-York, and about three hundred yards
from the Hudson River. The building is of hewn free-stone, 211 feet in
length, and sixty-feet deep, and is calculated for the accommodation of
about two hundred patients. Its site [Transcriber's note: original reads
'scite'] is elevated, commanding an extensive and delightful view of the
Hudson, the East River, and the Bay and Harbour of New-York, and the
adjacent country, and is one of the most beautiful and healthy spots on
New-York Island. Attached to the building are about seventy acres of
land, a great part of which has been laid out in walks, ornamental
grounds, and extensive gardens.
This institution has been established by the bounty of the Legislature
of the state of New-York, on the most liberal and enlarged plan, and
with the express design to carry into effect that system of management
of the insane, happily termed _moral treatment_, the superior efficacy
of which has been demonstrated in several of the Hospitals of Europe,
and especially in that admirable establishment of the Society of
Friends, called "THE RETREAT," near York, in England. This mild and
humane mode of treatment, when contrasted with the harsh and cruel
usage, and the severe and unnecessary restraint, which have formerly
disgraced even the most celebrated lunatic asylums, may be considered as
one of the noblest triumphs of pure and enlightened benevolence. But it
is by no means the intention of the governors to rely on moral, to the
exclusion of medical treatment. It is from a judicious combination of
both, that the greatest success is to be expected in every attempt to
cure or mitigate the disease of insanity.
In the construction of the edifice and in its interior arrangements, it
has been considered important to avoid, as far as practicable,
consistently with a due regard to the safety of the patients, whatever
might impress their minds with the idea of a prison, or a place of
punishment, and to make every thing conduce to their health and to their
ease and comfort. The self-respect and complacency which may thus be
produced in the insane, must have a salutary influence in restoring the
mind to its wonted serenity. In the disposition of the grounds attached
to the Asylum, everything has been done with reference to the amusement,
agreeable occupation, and salutary exercise of the patients.
Agricultural, horticultural, and mechanical employments, may be resorted
to, whenever the inclination of the patient, or their probable
beneficial effects may render them desirable. To dispel gloomy images,
to break morbid associations, to lead the feelings into their proper
current, and to restore the mind to its natural poise, various
[Transcriber's note: original reads 'varius'] less active amusements
will be provided. Reading, writing, drawing, innocent sports, tending
and feeding domestic animals, &c. will be encouraged as they may be
found conducive to the recovery of the patients. A large garden has been
laid out, orchards have been planted, and yards, containing more than
two acres, have been inclosed for the daily walks of those whose
disorder will not allow more extended indulgence. The plants of the
Elgin Botanic garden, presented to this institution by the Trustees of
Columbia College, have been arranged in a handsome green-house, prepared
for their reception.
The apartments of the house are adapted to the accommodation of the
patients, according to their sex, degree of disease, habits of life, and
the wishes of their friends. The male and female apartments are entirely
separated, so as to be completely secluded from the view of each other.
Care has been taken to appoint a Superintendent and Matron, of good
moral and religious characters, possessing cheerful tempers, and kind
dispositions, united with firmness, vigilance and discretion. A
Physician will reside in the house, and one or more Physicians, of
established character and experience, will attend regularly, and afford
medical aid in all cases where the general health, or the particular
cause of the patient's insanity, may require it. The relations or
friends of patients will be at liberty, if they prefer it, to employ
their own physicians, who will be allowed to attend patients, subject to
the general regulations of the house.
The institution will be regularly visited and inspected by a committee
of the Governors of the Hospital, who will, as often as they may think
it advantageous, be attended by some of the physicians of the city of
high character and respectability.
The charges for board and the other advantages of the institution, will
be moderate, and proportioned to the different circumstances of the
patients, and the extent of the accommodations desired for them.
Patients at the expense of the different towns of the state, will be
received at the lowest rate.
Application for the admission of patients into the Asylum, must be made,
at the New York Hospital, in Broadway, where temporary accommodation
will be provided for such patients as may require it, previously to
their being carried to the Asylum out of town. A committee of the
Governors will, when necessary, attend at the Hospital in Broadway, for
the purpose of admitting patients into the Asylum, and to agree on the
terms and security for payment to be given.
_By order of the board of Governors._
MATTHEW CLARKSON, _President._
THOMAS BUCKLEY, _Secretary._
_New-York, 10th May, 1821._
N.B. The friends of the patients are requested to send with them an
account of their cases, stating the probable causes of their insanity,
the commencement and peculiar character of the disorder. It is desirable
that this statement, where it is practicable, should be drawn up by a
physician.
Applications from abroad, for information relative to the admission of
patients, may be made by letters addressed to THOMAS BUCKLEY, Secretary
of the New-York Hospital.
FOOTNOTES:
[Footnote 25: Address of the Governors of the New York Hospital to the
Public, Relative to the Asylum for the Insane at Bloomingdale. New York,
May 10th, 1821. Reprinted Bloomingdale Hospital Press, May 1921.]
APPENDIX VI
BOARD OF GOVERNORS OF THE SOCIETY OF THE NEW YORK HOSPITAL
1821 AND 1921
1821
Matthew Clarkson, President
Thomas Eddy, Vice President
Thomas Franklin
Jonathan Little
Thomas Buckley
William Johnson
Andrew Morris
John R. Murray
John B. Lawrence
George Newbold
Ebenezer Stevens
Peter A. Jay
Najah Taylor
Cadwallader D. Colden
Robert H. Bowne
Robert I. Murray
Thomas C. Taylor
John Adams, Treasurer
John McComb
Benjamin W. Rogers, Assistant Treasurer
William Bayard
Nathan Comstock
Duncan P. Campbell
Rev. F.C. Schaeffer
John Clark, Jr.
William Edgar, Jr.
1921
Hermann H. Cammann
Henry W. deForest
Richard Trimble
Howard Townsend
George F. Baker
Augustine J. Smith
Charles S. Brown
Edward W. Sheldon, President
Bronson Winthrop
Frank K. Sturgis
David B. Ogden
Joseph H. Choate, Jr.
Henry G. Barbey
Cornelius B. Bliss, Jr.
Paul Tuckerman, Treasurer
William Woodward
Arthur Iselin
Payne Whitney, Vice President
G. Beekman Hoppin
Lewis Cass Ledyard, Jr.
Henry R. Taylor
R. Horace Gallatin
Walter Jennings
BLOOMINGDALE COMMITTEE
1821
Thomas Eddy
Cadwallader D. Colden
Thomas C. Taylor
John Adams
Thomas Buckley
John B. Lawrence
1921
Frank K. Sturgis
Augustine J. Smith
Henry R. Taylor
Henry G. Barbey
Walter Jennings
Howard Townsend
APPENDIX VII
ORGANIZATION OF BLOOMINGDALE HOSPITAL
1821 AND 1921
1821
Superintendent or Warden 1
Housekeeper 1
Keepers, Men 3
Keepers, Women 2
Chambermaids 1
Cooks 3
Baker 1
Assistant Baker 1
Dairymaid 1
Washerwoman 1
Assistant washerwoman 1
Yard Keeper 1
Waitresses 2
Gardener 1
Farmer 1
Assistant farmer 1
Total 22
Number of patients 75
1921
Officers and employees:
Men 217
Women 195
---
Total 412
Patients:
Men 132
Women 156
---
Total 288
_General Administration_:
Medical Superintendent 1
Steward 1-2
_Clinical and Laboratory Service:_
Physicians:
Resident 9
Consultants 3
Dentist 1
Assistant 1
Apothecary 1
Technicians 2
Stenographers 5-22
_Nursing Service_:
Director, Assistant, and Instructor 3
Nurses, attendants, and pupils 135
Maids and porters 46-184
_Occupational Therapy_ 13
_Physical Training_ 7
_Hydrotherapy and Massage_ 5
_Dietary Department_ 25
_Housekeeping and Laundry Departments_ 60
_Financial, Purchasing, and Supplies_ 10
_Engineering Department_ 18
_Building Department_ 20
_Industrial Department_ 5
_Farm and Grounds_ 38
_Miscellaneous_ 8
Chaplain, Librarian, Watchmen, Telephonists, Postal Clerk, Barber.
STATISTICS: 1821-1921
Number of cases admitted 1821 to 1921 13,411
Number discharged recovered 1821 to 1921 4,651
Number discharged improved 1821 to 1921 3,873