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Join the Otter Tail County Historical Society for an exterior tour of the Fergus Falls State Hospital on Friday, August 2, 7 p.m.
Designed as a single unit, the State Hospital is an architectural icon that mimics the architectural concepts of Dr. Thomas Story Kirkbride, a 19th century pioneer in the mental health field. Well known Minnesota architect Warren B. Dunnell translated Kirkbride’s ideas into a building plan.
From its opening in July 1890 to its closing in 2009, the State Hospital dominated the economic, social and cultural fabric of the region. With no interior access allowed, we are doing the next best thing by touring the exterior. As people walk around the massive complex we will examine stories, people and events that have largely been ignored. The hospital’s history is complex and often uncomfortable, but with its future hanging in the balance it is imperative we keep this history alive.
Meet at the western most part of the hospital and park in the Government Services parking lot. Cost for the tour is $10 with proceeds benefiting the Otter Tail County Historical Society