The History of Medfield State Hospital
This series explores the rich history of Medfield State Hospital, guided by the extensive knowledge and research of Richard DeSorgher. A lifelong Medfield resident and the Town Historian, Richard has dedicated himself to preserving the town’s heritage through books, articles, and a long-running newspaper column.
As a member of the Medfield Historical Society and a contributor to numerous Massachusetts state commissions, he is a trusted authority on the area’s past. Together, we’ll uncover the legacy of Medfield State Hospital, reflecting on its profound impact on the community and the lives it touched over the years.
From Train Tracks to Town Heroes: How Medfield Grew with Its State Hospital
When Medfield State Hospital opened in 1896, it brought not only a groundbreaking approach to mental health care but also transformed the town of Medfield. The hospital’s creation drew workers, patients, and families from across Massachusetts and beyond, swelling the local population and reshaping the town’s identity. This growing community fostered new opportunities, collaborations, and connections, leaving a lasting legacy on Medfield.
The Arrival of the First Patients
In May 1896, the hospital welcomed its first patients, many of whom had been transferred from overcrowded facilities like Taunton and Danvers State Hospitals. The journey to Medfield was as significant as their arrival itself. Patients traveled by train to Medfield Junction, where they were greeted by horse-drawn wagons that carried them along winding roads to their new home.
For weeks, local residents lined the streets to witness this procession. The sight of patients arriving piqued the town’s curiosity, sparking conversations about the hospital’s mission and its role in the community.
The Medfield State Hospital
Credit: Abandoned Adventures
A Growing Community
By the end of its first year, the hospital housed 600 patients, with additional buildings quickly expanding its capacity to 1,000. The growing population created a self-contained community within the hospital grounds, with patients and staff forming a diverse and dynamic social environment.
The hospital also drew skilled workers and professionals to Medfield. Doctors, nurses, and attendants relocated to the town, bringing their families and contributing to the local economy. Craftsmen, bricklayers, and laborers found steady work constructing and maintaining the hospital’s many buildings, while local businesses flourished by serving the needs of hospital employees and their families.
Economic Impact on Medfield
The hospital’s presence was a boon for Medfield’s economy. The influx of residents and visitors increased demand for goods and services, leading to the growth of shops, inns, and restaurants. Businesses in town, like the now-iconic Lord’s Department Store, found loyal customers among hospital staff.
Although largely self-sustaining, the hospital’s economic contributions extended far beyond its grounds. For example, the hospital supplied water to Medfield for several decades, demonstrating its integral role in the town’s infrastructure.
Fostering New Connections
Beyond providing medical care, the hospital played an important role as a center of social and cultural life. It hosted events like dances, baseball games, and concerts, many of which welcomed Medfield residents. These gatherings brought together patients, staff, and townspeople, helping to break down barriers and build mutual understanding.
One particularly cherished tradition was the hospital orchestra’s performances during dances held in the recreational hall. Staff and patients alike participated, and these events became meaningful moments of connection and celebration for all involved.
Medfield State Asylum, Doctor’s Cottage and Nurses’ Home, Medfield, Massachusetts – Postcard
Stories of Heroism and Resilience
As the hospital grew, it became a place of quiet heroism and resilience. Staff members often went above and beyond to provide care and compassion to patients, while patients themselves contributed to the community through their work and interactions. Their efforts weren’t always visible to the outside world, but they left an indelible mark on Medfield’s spirit.
Patients working on the hospital’s farm or in its workshops found purpose and pride in their contributions, helping to sustain the hospital while improving their own well-being. These acts of service and collaboration demonstrated the profound impact that a sense of purpose can have on individuals and communities.
Transforming Medfield’s Identity
By the early 20th century, the hospital’s population had surpassed that of the town itself. Medfield had become synonymous with its state hospital, and the town’s identity was deeply intertwined with the institution’s presence. The hospital became a cornerstone of Medfield’s cultural and economic life, shaping the town’s identity for generations.
The influence of the hospital extended far beyond its walls. Its emphasis on care, community, and self-sufficiency inspired a broader appreciation for the importance of mental health care and the dignity of every individual.
A Legacy of Growth and Connection
Today, the story of Medfield State Hospital is inseparable from the story of Medfield itself. The hospital’s creation and expansion brought new people, ideas, and opportunities to the town, shaping its development in countless ways. The bonds formed between the hospital and the town continue to resonate, reminding us of the power of community to foster growth and resilience.
As we reflect on Medfield’s expanding population during the hospital’s early years, we see a story not just of numbers but of connection, collaboration, and hope. It’s a story that reminds us of the profound impact a shared vision can have on a community.