Photo provided by Jean Bowman
In a poignant exploration through time and mental health history, the Fergus Falls Public Library will host Missy Hermes, Education Coordinator of the Otter Tail County Historical Society, for a talk that delves into the 134-year history of the Fergus Falls State Hospital.
The event is scheduled for Tuesday, January 23rd, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Established by psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Kirkbride over a century ago, the Fergus Falls State Hospital served as a pioneering institution in mental health care, significantly impacting Otter Tail County, Minnesota.
Dr. Kirkbride’s visionary approach included the design of buildings and spaces specifically tailored for patient therapy, making the facility a game changer in the state’s mental health landscape.
Closed for the past 17 years, the hospital’s legacy continues to resonate.
Missy Hermes, who has been at the forefront of education outreach for the Otter Tail County Historical Society since 1991, will share insights into the hospital’s profound influence during her talk at the library.
Hermes, reflecting on the popularity of an exhibit at the museum, remarked, “When we hosted the exhibit at the Museum, it was so popular that we held it over for an additional year. People of all ages are starting to talk about the importance of mental health; there’s not such a stigma associated with the topic.”
The event offers a unique opportunity for the community to learn about the historic contributions of the Fergus Falls State Hospital.
Photos Taken by Jean Bowman in 2006 (showing how sunlight and open space was an important part of the State Hospital)
As mental health conversations gain traction, this talk aims to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in the past and highlights the evolving perspectives on mental health today.
The Fergus Falls Public Library extends a warm invitation to all interested individuals to attend this illuminating talk by Missy Hermes, providing a chance to engage in a crucial conversation about the history and awareness of mental health in Otter Tail County.