From around 1911 to 1973, the Northern State Mental Hospital occupied these grounds, with up to 2700 residents. In addition to the typical hospital, office and residential buildings you would expect to see at such an institution, these grounds also included a lumber mill, quarry, dairy, bakery, library, gymnasium, greenhouse, canning facilities, steam plant, and livestock and vegetables were farmed on its 700+ acres.
We were curious about visiting the cemetery - which you are allowed to visit - but we couldn't find it. Apparently 1500 people are buried there, with a single tombstone to mark the site.
The main buildings that I imagine were the residence and hospital portion are still in use in new capacities.
The buildings that you can look at are the farm buildings primarily. I believe some of the other buildings we were looking at were the cannery and possibly a water treatment facility.
Unfortunately there is a lot of graffiti, but some of it is interesting.
I wish there were more signs informing me of what I was looking at, but it was fun to guess.
If you like disc golf, the grounds has also been made into an extensive disc golf course. Leashed dogs are allowed, so next time I go, I'll bring Cedar and Luna. There is still a lot to explore!
