Austin State Hospital

The oldest psychiatric hospital in Texas is what is now known as the Austin State hospital. The historical marker is located on the front of the oldest building on campus.

photo by Kevin Surbaugh

Inscription:
While Texas was a frontier state and psychiatry a pioneer venture, the Texas Legislature in 1856 created this hospital for the mentally ill; in 1925, named Austin State Hospital.

Oldest Texas mental hospital.

Construction began in 1857. The institution, then housed in the administration building, was opened May 11, 1861, with about a dozen patients and has continued to be dedicated to mental health programs.

photo by Kevin Surbaugh

Erected:
1966

photo by Kevin Surbaugh

Location:
4110 Guadalupe Austin, TX 78751 (Top of steps on the front of the building pictured below)


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