In 1883, what is now known as the Oregon State Hospital opened as the "Oregon State Insane Asylum" in Salem. Between 1900 and 1910, state mental hospitals were transitioning from a "moral treatment" model to a focus on "moral hygiene" in the era of early medicalized psychiatric treatment. The lives of women at the OSIA illustrate the gendered way in which "insanity" was diagnosed and treated. Historian Rebekah Averette examines how their stories give insight into the political, social, and cultural beliefs that contributed to the horrors of the large-scale asylum model which became the basis of mental health treatment in the United States, as well as attempts at reform and change during the early 20th century.  

Rebekah Averette is the collections manager for the Deschutes County Museum in Bend. Born and raised in Oregon, Rebekah's fascination with history led her to earn a bachelor's degree in history and German from the University of Oregon. She received a master's degree in teaching at the University of Washington and worked as a middle and high school teacher and library paraprofessional for over ten years, before returning to the field of history. Rebekah has served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Ukraine and has recently completed her master's in history at Portland State University with a focus on women's history in Progressive Era Oregon. 

Enjoy 15% off your hotel stay on History Pub nights! Show your ticket at check-in.

These events are open to everyone interested in Pacific Northwest history, and beyond! Often co-sponsored by local or state historical and civic organizations, we bring you experts, scholars, first-person experiencers, historians and documentaries expounding on topics from indigenous history to the birth of Portland, early explorers to hop growing, and on and on! It's like being back in the classroom - except this time you get to settle into comfortable seats and enjoy a drink or two with dinner while you listen and learn.

This event is eligible for a History Pub Stamp