Bedlam

Paul Chambers

Bethlem Hospital is the oldest mental health institution in the world but to many it is famous only as 'Bedlam' a chaotic mad-house that brutalised its patients. In fact for much of its history the abuse was minimal but between 1700 and 1855 Bedlam was subject to a self-serving and cruel regime. The hospital ditched its staple fare of poor and needy patients in favour of paying customers especially those with wealthy relations. The institution expanded and under the dynastic control of the Monro family implemented a brutal medical regime that gave 'Bedlam' its unsavoury reputation. Despite great public opposition political corruption kept the hospital out of the inspection regime that applied to other asylums. Only a massive and very public scandal in 1851 brought to an end the abuse.
BEDLAM will tell the story of this shameful period in London's history. It will focus chiefly on the period between 1700 and 1855 when Bedlam's reputation was at its worst. Much of this abuse is connected with the Monro family who between 1728 and 1855 form a continuous father-son dynasty of four physicians. It was their desire for fame questionable medical theories and private business interests that led to the maltreatment of patients on the incurable wards.