Camarillo State Hospital

by Evelyn S. Taylor, Mary E. Holt

Camarillo State Hospital, affectionately known as "Cam," officially opened its doors in 1936, during a time when the California State Commission in Lunacy oversaw the treatment and care of those deemed mentally ill. A pioneering research institution in autism and schizophrenia, Cam achieved notoriety as one of two state institutions that accommodated children and as the first state hospital to receive certification for treatment of the developmentally disabled. Although it was an independent body, retaining its own dairy, farm, residences, and even a bowling alley, Cam also developed creative relationships with volunteers, educators, and businesspeople for the betterment of its patients. "Enhancing Innovation Through Independence" became Cam's final ambition and, in the end, its ultimate achievement.

128 pages, Paperback

Published June 3, 2019

Reviews

[Kaitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an excellent compilation of photos and history! It's really cool to see how much of the original hospital is still at the university. I've definitely had class in one of the old residence halls and all of our old tech is stored in the former mortuary. It's eerie and cool at the same time.