History of the "Kirkbride Plan" with Historian Madeline Feierstein
Thomas Story Kirkbride developed a blueprint for treating mental illness in the 19th Century. Patients would no longer be subjected to inhumane conditions, gaining more rights as full American citizens. Known as the "Kirkbride Plan", these gothic buildings loomed over cities and held a monopoly on mental health care in the United States. His insane asylums continued to be constructed long after his death. This lecture will discuss why Kirkbride's plan gained such popularity and how it all went so wrong for those admitted.
Adults, registration is encouraged.
Led by local Historian Madeline Feierstein.
- Date:
- Monday, May 18, 2026
- Time:
- 7:00pm - 8:00pm
- Location:
- Kings Park Meeting Room
- Library Branch:
- Kings Park Library
- Categories:
- Health & Wellness Presentation/Performance
- Audience:
This program is part of a Historian Series! Check out The History of the American Civil War on July 14th from 7-8pm.
To request reasonable ADA accommodations or alternative format of materials, please call 703-324-8380 or TTY 711.
