Harrisburg State Hospital was Pennsylvania's first public asylum. When it opened in 1851, the primary treatment was occupational therapy to keep the mind busy. Throughout its history, new treatments were developed and used, from hydrotherapy to insulin shock therapy to lobotomies. While Harrisburg State is seen as a progressive institution, and it influenced positive change in the mental health space, it's undeniable that its treatments have left a sort of sadness. Today, the hospital is known as one of the most haunted places in Pennsylvania, as many have reported intense poltergeist activity when on campus.

Have you experienced something paranormal? If you have a Pennsylvania-based encounter you'd like to share, send a message to [email protected].

If you loved the episode, please consider subscribing to the Patreon, leaving a rating & review, and following my social media.

Sources:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557996003359

https://www.uphs.upenn.edu/paharc/timeline/1751/tline7.html

https://hsh.thomas-industriesinc.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Harrisburg-State-Hospital-Pennsylvanias-America/dp/0738598275

https://www.travelchannel.com/shows/ghost-nation/episodes/murder-at-the-asylum

https://www.discovery.com/shows/ghost-lab/episodes/the-morgue

Produced and hosted by Gabby Hope Frye.

Music by Jonathan Downs. Cover art by Kerry Mullen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.