“Ever wondered what life was like for the thousands of patients who spent time in Gloucester’s asylums?

Wednesday 23 June, 1 - 2pm, Free of charge

     Barnwood House Hospital

Hear about the history of these institutions, and about some of the patients who may have spent decades in the city’s asylums. Join us for an in-depth talk all about “Life in Gloucester’s Asylums”, looking at the case notes of some of the Victorian and Edwardian patients, whose unheard voices will be represented in this exciting online talk.

We will explore the history of the asylums, from when the very first one opened in 1823, right through the following few decades, to what day-to-day life was like inside them. Join us for this whistle stop tour of the heritage and history of mental health in Gloucester, and learn some surprising facts along the way. Did you know, for example, that the Royal College of Psychiatrists was founded, in the early nineteenth century, at a meeting here in Gloucester?

This monthly series of leisurely lunchtime learning sessions are great for those who are new to learning about the past and for those passionate about history, keen to expand their knowledge on a given subject in a focused session.

Led by experts at Gloucestershire Archives they are easy to digest, laced with humour and full of headline facts and context information ready to unlock an the secrets of a time gone by.

Secrets Revealed are live Zoom seminars that bring together a community of people with a shared interest in history, heritage, culture and their importance in today’s world.

To book your place visit Gloucestershire Archives website