Agnews Developmental Center

Agnews Developmental Center was a large hospital complex with 41 buildings spread across 323 acres of land. The campus included farms, construction trade workshops, a power plant, and a fire station to serve the residents on site.

The institution opened in 1885 as California Hospital for the Chronic Insane and experienced severe damage during the 1906 earthquake, resulting in about 118 deaths. The facility rebuilt and later shifted its focus to serve people with developmental disabilities.

The institution transformed from treating mental illness to developmental disabilities in 1966, reflecting changes in California's healthcare approach.

The grounds are large and require time to explore, so visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The buildings are spread across the entire property, making it helpful to familiarize yourself with the layout beforehand.

The facility maintained its own train station and operated a self-sufficient system with internal food production to supply residents. The complex functioned as an independent community with most services needed contained within its borders.

Location: Santa Clara

Architectural style: Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, Mediterranean Revival architecture

Address: 4000 Lafayette Avenue

GPS coordinates: 37.39389,-121.95278

Latest update: December 18, 2025 11:40