Research

Scope and Content Note

This series documents transfers of individual inmates (1911-1928) to Dannemora State Hospital, as well as daily hospital censuses (1919-1972). Transfer records include: inmate name and identification number; institution received from; date of transfer; number of previous "attacks;" date current attack began; former conditions; personal habits; supposed cause of insanity; insane relatives; statement made by patient at interview; actions of patient; other facts (usually statements of guards); and signature of physician. Other information, such as correspondence, is sometimes attached. Entries for early years are hand written on printed forms. Beginning ca. 1921, some narratives are typewritten and attached.

Census books list in columnar format the daily number of inmates admitted; numbers discharged as recovered, much improved, improved, unimproved, and died; total number of inmates; re-commitments; and remarks. Under remarks for each day, patient identification numbers and names are listed to correspond with numbers admitted. Average daily hospital population is given for each month.