Maitland Mercury
1849
On Monday last we visited the Tarban Creek Asylum,
when by the kindness of Dr. Campbell we were allowed to
inspect the whole of the premises. Dr. Digby, the
superintendent, whose vigilance and efficiency is worthy of
all praise, conducted us through the establishment; and
politely explained to us the various modes of treatment
adopted towards the patients. The building was intended
originally for only sixty patients, but so lamentably has
insanity increased of late years in this colony, that is was
recently enlarged so as to accommodate about one hundred;
still it has been found too small, as there is at the
present time about one hundred and eighty six patients on
the books. Notwithstanding this large number, so judiciously
are the arrangements carried out, that there does not appear
to be that great practical inconvenience one might naturally
expect. The building is a very substantial one of wrought
stone, occupying a prominent and healthful position; and the
small rooms, or as they are termed cells, allotted for the
sleeping apartments of the patients, are neat and clean to a
nicety, while the lighting and ventilation of each is most
admirable, so much so in fact that there is no appearance of
cells. The patients themselves also presented a very clean
and healthy appearance. There are several large recreation
yards both for males and females, which are every way
calculated for the use for which they are designed; and from
having verandahs all round can be used either in fine or
rainy weather. A library has lately been established for the
use of the patients, and we saw several of them apparently
deeply engaged in the perusal of books and newspapers. Some
of the male patients are engaged in various occupations,
such as cutting wood, cooking, fetching water and the like;
but we believe none of them are found to be capable of
working at their trades. One thing we think is wanting to
make the establishment complete, namely a large garden, as
we are of opinion that with a little looking after many of
the more quiet patients might be found to cultivate it; and
thus while it would afford employment to these unfortunate
individuals, which would occupy their time and attention, it
might be made a source of profit by the production of
vegetables for the consumption of the house. We were
altogether well pleased with our visit, and from the
inspection which we made we are of opinion that this
establishment is conducted in a most gratifying manner, and
reflects the highest credit upon all concerned in its
management - People's Advocate,
(34)
