Abandoned Central States Hospital, Indianapolis

Central States Hospital in Indianapolis is but one of many closed mental hospitals across the country, closed due to funding issues and reports of inhumane practices. This site currently houses one public accessible building: A medical history museum in the structure originally used as the facility hospital and autopsy wing. Great if you love to see vintage medical equipment, tools, and pharmaceutical goods.

We were fortunate that on the day we went to the site all gates were open. The local fire department was using the grounds for training, as several fire trucks were hooking hoses to the still active hydrants scattered throughout the expansive grounds. In addition, we observed that the local police department had their horses for mounted patrols also stabled on the grounds.

Stories of Paranormal encounters are quite frankly voluminous at this site. Literally miles of underground utility tunnels cross the site, with many reports of sightings. 1950’s workers allegedly discovered evidence of old shackles being found, indicating patient restraint areas in the tunnels. No concrete evidence has been produced, however. The main old hospital buildings have long since been demolished, making way for ‘modern’ dorm style buildings constructed in the mid-late 20th century.

The day we wandered through the grounds was a beautiful, sunny day. The weather notwithstanding, I could definitely feel the emotional energy of this site. No specific encounters, just a discernment of energy, mostly negative. The buildings projected, at least to me, an air of somber abandonment. The old powerhouse, one of the oldest remaining buildings, displayed beautiful brickwork from additions added in the Depression era of the 30’s. That detailed and skillfully laid masonry added to the forlorn nature of the entire environment of this site, as I related to it.

It is easy for me to understand and believe the reports of paranormal activity reported at this facility. I would love to be able to participate in an investigation here.