The Historical Society of Pennsylvania commemorates the 30th anniversary of the closing of the Pennhurst State School and Hospital in November 1987. Please join in as this panel of experts shares Pennhurst’s incredible history from progressive era care for the “feebleminded” to federal court intervention of an institution embroiled in accusations of abuse and medical experimentation. We get a glimpse into the past history, scope of advocacy, and the challenges of preserving both the history and physical space of a large historic property. The event also includes a display of Pennhurst’s history.
For more information about the panel discussion and detailed speaker biographies, please visit the event website.
To visit the Pennhurst State School and Hospital, see the Pennhurst Memorial and Preservation Alliance website. According to the website, there is a great deal of research currently invested in “re-use” of the extensive property to foster an active campus that promotes both the past history and advocacy for the future of Disability Rights.