Abandoned Suitcases Reveal Private Lives of Asylum Patients

Way back in 2009 I posted a piece about an exhibition titled "Lives They Left Behind" about the suitcases found in the attic of theWillard Psychiatric Center when it closed in 1995.

The exterior of Chapin House, Willard’s central building that was demolished in the 1980s.

Blogger Pricklylegs sent me a newer and more detailed article about these suitcases which reveal so much about the patients who owned them.

Anna’s suitcase contained an inventory of her glamorous clothing. 

Dmytre’s suitcase contained his wedding photo and the flowers carried by his wife. 

All photos by Jon Crispin

The suitcases are now a part of the permanent collection of the New York State Museum. Read more  at Collectors Weekly