Site designed & maintained by 1L Media, LLC. 2010
In 1901 The New Hampshire Legislature passed an act (Chapter 102, sect. 1) to establish a home for “feebleminded” children. 60 children living in almshouses throughout the state were admitted to the asylum. Over the course of the 90 years the institution for children and adults served to segregate and congregate hundreds of New Hampshire citizens, many of them to a life of neglect and isolation, sheltered away from family, friends and the greater community.
Using interviews with former residents of the institution, parents and people who worked there along with old film footage and an extensive collection of photos and new clippings we will create an hour long video documentary. The documentary will trace the history of the New Hampshire School for the Feebleminded, later renamed The Laconia State School from its initial beginnings in the early 1900’s until its closure in 1991. The Laconia institution was similar to other such places during a time when people who were branded and stigmatized as feebleminded and dangerous to society were banished to a life of isolation and total segregation.
The purpose of this project is to provide a thought provoking and inspirational documentary that examines the social values and cultural ideals of the twentieth century, relative to individuals and families who were labeled feebleminded, deficient, or disabled. Thousands of children and adults were institutionalized in large, state operated institutions throughout the country, and in the case of New Hampshire, at Laconia State School.
The New Hampshire School for Feeble-Minded Plaque 1921
Aeriel view of the Laconia State School grounds 1934
FRIENDS
"THOSE WHO CANNOT REMEMBER THE PAST ARE CONDEMNED TO REPEAT IT."
GEORGE SANTAYANA
THE LIFE OF REASON, VOL. 1, 1905
Visitors as of 7/07/10
NH Developmental
Disability Center
UNH Institute on Disability
Disability Rights Council
