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The Haunting History of Rolling Hills Asylum

Rolling Hills Asylum, a former poorhouse located in East Bethany, New York, stands as a notable relic of America’s troubled past concerning social welfare. Established in 1827, it became a refuge for society's outcasts, including the poor, mentally ill, elderly, physically disabled, orphans, and hardened criminals. This complex blend of residents often lived in close quarters, sometimes sharing rooms. Remarkably, at its peak, the asylum was a self-sufficient establishment, operating a farm where residents worked to earn their keep, fostering a sense of community amidst hardship.

A Troubling Legacy of Death