Nestled in the picturesque town of Medfield, Massachusetts, lies a haunting relic of the past – the Medfield State Hospital. Once a bustling psychiatric facility, this now-abandoned institution has become a captivating backdrop for some of Hollywood's most thrilling productions. From the eerie corridors of "Shutter Island" to the suspenseful scenes of "Knives Out," the Medfield State Hospital has cemented its place as a cinematic treasure trove, offering a glimpse into the complex and often overlooked history of mental health treatment in America.

Unlocking the Secrets of a Cinematic Gem

A Cinematic Backdrop Like No Other

The Medfield State Hospital has long been a magnet for filmmakers seeking a unique and captivating setting for their stories. With its haunting architecture, crumbling walls, and a palpable sense of history, the hospital has become a sought-after location for productions ranging from the supernatural thriller "Shutter Island" to the murder mystery "Knives Out." As historian John Thompson reveals, the decision to film at Medfield was a strategic one, with the hospital's well-preserved state making it a rare and invaluable asset in the world of filmmaking."A movie was filmed here called 'X-Men: The New Mutants' and 20th Century Fox were the producers of that movie and they told me that they could've filmed that movie anywhere in the world and they decided to film the movie here because it's the last almost fully intact asylum in the whole world," Thompson shared with WBZ-TV.The hospital's cinematic appeal extends beyond its physical attributes, as the institution's rich history and the stories it holds have the power to captivate audiences. From the eerie writings on the walls to the chained-up doors and boarded-up windows, the abandoned buildings create an atmosphere that is both haunting and intriguing, inviting viewers to delve deeper into the mysteries that lie within.

Pioneering the "Cottage Plan" Approach

The Medfield State Hospital's significance extends far beyond its cinematic fame. Established in 1896, the hospital was the first in the country to be built on the "cottage plan," a revolutionary approach to mental health treatment that aimed to provide patients with a more comfortable and home-like environment."This plan was to give people more access to fresh air and sunshine," explained Thompson, highlighting the hospital's forward-thinking design that sought to prioritize the well-being and rehabilitation of its patients.The cottage plan, which featured a village-like setting with individual buildings for various functions, was a stark contrast to the traditional asylum model that had dominated the field of mental health treatment. This innovative approach reflected a growing understanding of the importance of creating a therapeutic environment that could aid in the recovery and reintegration of patients back into society.

A Haunting Presence Lingers

Despite the hospital's closure in 2003, the Medfield State Hospital continues to captivate visitors and locals alike with its haunting presence. Thompson, who occasionally conducts tours of the grounds, has personally experienced the eerie energy that permeates the abandoned buildings."In some buildings, I have sensed that presence and that energy," he shared, alluding to the lingering spirits that seem to haunt the halls. "And what goes through my mind is, 'Who's on the other side?'"The hospital's haunting reputation has only added to its allure, drawing in those who seek to uncover the mysteries that lie within its walls. From the chilling writings scrawled on the walls to the ominous sounds that echo through the empty corridors, the Medfield State Hospital has become a beacon for those fascinated by the paranormal and the unexplained.

Preserving a Piece of History

As the town of Medfield works to transform the former hospital grounds into a new residential and community hub, the preservation of the hospital's architectural and historical integrity remains a top priority. Thompson emphasizes the importance of maintaining the buildings' unique features, ensuring that the legacy of the Medfield State Hospital is not lost to time."The integrity of the buildings and architecture would have to remain intact," he stated, underscoring the need to balance progress with the preservation of the site's rich history.The Medfield State Hospital's journey from a pioneering psychiatric facility to a cinematic sensation and haunting landmark is a testament to the enduring power of the past. As the town embarks on a new chapter for the site, the hope is that the hospital's legacy will continue to captivate and inspire, serving as a reminder of the complex and often overlooked history of mental health treatment in America.