Wednesday 23 June, 1 - 2pm. Free online event

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

                                                                         Plaque above entrance, Coney Hill                    William Hogarth,1735, fromThe Rakes Progress

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.

                                        BARNWOOD D3725-Box131 Male Case Book (2)

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?

To book your place visit Gloucestershire Archives