The Plymouth County Hospital, located in Hanson, Massachusetts, stands as a historical testament to early 20th-century public health efforts and architectural design. Opening in 1919, the facility served various roles throughout its existence, reflecting the evolving landscape of healthcare and community needs.
Origins and Architectural Significance
Construction of the Plymouth County Hospital commenced in 1917 under the supervision of Boston architect J. William Beals. The hospital was designed in the Mediterranean Revival and Italianate architectural styles, featuring red-tiled roofs, stucco walls, and expansive verandas. This design was atypical for New England, lending the facility a distinctive aesthetic that stood out in the region.
Situated on Bonney Hill, the hospital's location was chosen for its serene environment, deemed beneficial for patients suffering from tuberculosis (TB). The facility was dedicated on May 31, 1919, and admitted its first patient on June 16 of the same year. It was one of the first hospitals to incorporate a modern heating system, and by 1922, an annex was added to accommodate additional patients and include amenities such as an auditorium.
Development and Expansion
Initially established as a sanatorium for children afflicted with TB, the hospital provided comprehensive care, including education and recreational activities. Nurses engaged patients in outdoor activities like sledding and sprinkler play, integrating therapy with enjoyment. The facility also featured classrooms, a theater, and even a therapy dog to uplift patients' spirits.
In 1965, under Superintendent C. Clark Streeter, the hospital transitioned from a TB sanatorium to a chronic care facility, addressing the needs of patients with long-term illnesses. By 1984, it was renamed the Cranberry Specialty Hospital of Plymouth County. Despite these efforts, the hospital faced financial challenges and declining admissions in the late 1980s, leading to its closure in 1992.
Decline and Closure
After its closure, the hospital remained vacant, and the property was transferred from Plymouth County to the town of Hanson in 1999. Plans to redevelop the site into assisted living facilities and townhouses were initiated but ultimately fell through due to financial and legal complications. During this period, the abandoned hospital became a target for vandalism and arson, with notable fires occurring in 2004 and 2006.
The deteriorating condition of the buildings and safety concerns prompted the town to take action. In 2016, Hanson appropriated $1.8 million for the demolition of the main hospital building and associated structures. Demolition began in October 2016, and by March 29, 2017, the hospital was completely razed.
Preservation Efforts and Redevelopment
Following the demolition, the town of Hanson initiated plans to repurpose the 56-acre site into a community park, now referred to as High Street Park. The redevelopment includes improvements to the trail system, potential playgrounds, and educational signage to commemorate the site's history. Some existing structures, such as the annex, have been repurposed for community use, housing organizations like the Hanson Food Pantry and the Plymouth County Beekeepers Association.
Legacy
The Plymouth County Hospital's history reflects the broader narrative of public health evolution, architectural innovation, and community adaptation. From its origins as a TB sanatorium to its transformation into a chronic care facility, and finally its redevelopment into a public park, the site embodies the dynamic interplay between healthcare needs and community development. The preservation of its history through educational initiatives ensures that the legacy of the hospital and its impact on the community of Hanson will not be forgotten.
