Lunatic Asylum 1885

Lunatic Asylum 1885. . The language used to describe those considered mentally ill in the 1800s included words like lunatic, idiotic, insane, or epileptic. Modern interpretation of mental illness requires placing labels in historical context or understanding the reasons that influenced the ideas of the past. The words "lunatic asylum” were common for the late 1800s and use in modern context is not meant to imply negativity. , Prior to the construction of a new lunatic asylum, people considered insane lived in a dilapidated structure overlooking the hog barn. Starting in 1883, the Wood County Commissioners began the process of accepting bids from local contractors to construct a separate new building for the insane; however, decisions were hindered by cost and the project was put on hold for nearly two years. In the end, Superintendent Edwin Farmer was made manager of the construction and the lunatic asylum opened to inmates in late 1885. , The Ohio State Board of Charities worked with Wood County officials to perfect the process of managing those considered insane. A Warrant to Convey was issued for a person considered insane and a judge determined if specific treatment was needed. If the insanity exceeded the capabilities of the infirmary staff, the person was sent to a state run mental hospital.