From Embarkation to Abandonment: The Story of the Paul A. Dever State School

Nestled in Taunton, Massachusetts, the grounds that once buzzed with military activity and later echoed with the footsteps of institutional life now stand as a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of American history. The site, known in its final iteration as the Paul A. Dever Developmental Center, has undergone significant transformations, each reflecting broader societal shifts.

Camp Myles Standish: A Wartime Nexus

Established in October 1942, Camp Myles Standish served as a critical U.S. Army staging area during World War II. Spanning approximately 1,485 acres, the camp was the primary embarkation point for the Boston Port of Embarkation, facilitating the deployment of over a million U.S. and Allied soldiers to the European theater. The camp's infrastructure included extensive rail yards, capable of accommodating the massive influx and outflow of troops.

Beyond its role in troop movements, Camp Myles Standish also functioned as a prisoner-of-war camp, detaining German and Italian soldiers. The presence of these POWs added another layer to the camp's multifaceted operations during the war.

Following the conclusion of World War II, the camp was decommissioned in January 1946. At one point, the site was even considered as a potential location for the United Nations headquarters, highlighting its strategic significance.

Transition to the Myles Standish State School

In the post-war era, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts repurposed the former military camp to address the state's growing need for facilities dedicated to the care of individuals with developmental disabilities. In 1950, legislation established the Myles Standish State School for the Mentally Retarded, and by 1952, the institution opened its doors.

The existing military structures were adapted for institutional use, and additional buildings were constructed to accommodate the school’s operations. The facility was designed following the “cottage plan,” featuring multiple L-shaped dormitory buildings connected by approximately 1.5 miles of tunnels.

Renaming and Expansion: Honoring Governor Dever

In 1959, the institution was renamed the Paul A. Dever State School in honor of the former Massachusetts governor who had been instrumental in advocating for improved care for the mentally handicapped. Governor Dever’s administration had prioritized the expansion and modernization of state facilities dedicated to mental health and developmental disabilities.

At its peak, the school housed up to 3,000 patients, providing care and education to individuals with various degrees of developmental challenges. The campus encompassed over 1,200 acres, featuring not only residential buildings but also recreational facilities and centralized services.

Decline and Closure

Despite its initial promise, the Paul A. Dever State School faced challenges in the latter half of the 20th century. Reports of underfunding, overcrowding, and inadequate care emerged, leading to lawsuits and increased scrutiny. By 1991, significant portions of the facility were closed, and in 2002, the institution ceased operations entirely amid a broader movement toward deinstitutionalization.

Following its closure, the abandoned campus became a site of interest for urban explorers and, unfortunately, vandals. Incidents of arson and unauthorized activities were reported, further deteriorating the already decaying structures.

Redevelopment: From Dereliction to Industrial Hub

Recognizing the potential of the vast, unused land, the City of Taunton acquired over 700 acres of the former school grounds in 1973. This area was transformed into the Myles Standish Industrial Park, which has since become one of the most successful industrial parks in Massachusetts. The redevelopment attracted numerous businesses, revitalizing the local economy and repurposing the land for modern use.

By the mid-2010s, the remaining structures of the Paul A. Dever State School were demolished, erasing the physical remnants of its complex history. Today, the site stands as a symbol of transformation, reflecting the shifting priorities and values of society over time.

Some annoying Dever sayings picked up from exploring extensively here back in the day: tehdevers // Never say Dever // Always and 4 Dever // forever and dever // Dever is mah home // Don’t Destroy Dever! - I really miss this place and I really wish I took it more seriously for pictures, I have so few actual usable images from here.