The Ridges Cemeteries & State Mental Hospital

On January 9, 1874, a state-of-the-art psychiatric hospital opened on the Ridges in Athens. “The Athens Lunatic Asylum,” as it was originally named, featured grandiose buildings surrounded by elaborate landscaping with ponds, fountains and parks.

The theory was that, in a beautiful setting, patients would improve if not be cured. Unfortunately, mental health during the time was not nearly as advanced as it is today and once admitted, most patients remained until death. The hospital soon created its own cemeteries to serve as a final resting place for patients who were not claimed by their families. With few exceptions their graves were marked only with a number. Over the years, a few gravestones with names have been purchased by family members of the deceased.

These cemeteries have recently been restored and are part of the Ridges Cemetery Nature Walk.

Get there!

To The Ridges: From US 33, take the SR 682/Ohio University Exit. Turn left onto Richland Avenue. Take your first right onto Dairy Lane, then turn right into the Ridges at the bend in the road.