Danvers State Hospital

Danvers State Hospital sits on a hilltop and follows a Victorian Gothic design, with a central administration block and eight wings fanning out symmetrically from the center. The layout adhered to the Kirkbride Plan, which arranged wings in staggered rows to allow air and daylight into each section of the building.

The facility was built starting in 1874 and opened for patients four years later, designed by architect Nathaniel Jeremiah Bradlee. It operated as a psychiatric institution into the late 20th century before being repurposed for other uses.

The hospital established a nursing training program in 1889 and introduced a pathological research laboratory in 1895 to advance medical knowledge.

The hilltop location offers open views of the surrounding area, but the access may be demanding for visitors with limited mobility. Those interested in architectural history should plan to visit during daylight to see the facade details clearly.

The site relied on its own water supply drawn from Middleton Pond and operated almost independently. It also included repair workshops, farm structures, and housing for staff members.

Location: Danvers

Inception: 1878

Architects: Nathaniel Jeremiah Bradlee

Architectural style: Gothic architecture

GPS coordinates: 42.58120,-70.97440

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:55