Founded in 1883, the Oregon State Hospital located in Salem, Oregon is the state’s primary psychiatric facility. In 1883, the campus was designed based on Dr. Thomas Kirkbride’s blueprints, using his pioneering “Kirkbride Plan”. The Kirkbride Plan emphasized the therapeutic architecture, natural light and a park-like healing environment.
Inspiration Behind the Architecture
Beneath the Oregon State Hospital lies nearly two miles worth of underground tunnels built around 1900. Originally designed to safely transport patients, staff and supplies between buildings without exposure to the elements. The subterranean corridors have since become a focal point of local history and urban legend. During major hospital renovations, many of the unneeded tunnel vaults on the campus were permanently filled in for safety reasons. The tunnels are closed to the public due to safety concerns.
Salem’s Claim to Fame
The American psychological comedy-drama film,“One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest” (1975), was filmed in Salem, Oregon and used the actual Oregon State Hospital as the set. Superintendent, Dr. Dean Brooks, authorized the filming and even played a role in the movie. The movie won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1976 and Jack Nicholson who played the main character, Randle McMurphy, won the Best Actor Award.
Accounts from Employees
The Oregon State Hospital employs more than 2,000 staff members across two campuses in Salem and Junction City. The majority of staff work at the Salem campus. Some of the positions include nursing/direct care staff, clinical providers, administrative support and maintenance crew.
Kevin Kalb has been a part of the maintenance crew as head equipment operator for over 21 years.
While the position is deeply fulfilling, staff members must remain aware of the safety risks.
“Due to it being a secured mental facility, there are potential security risks and potential hazards working around people who are not themselves or in their right state of mind. Once a patient jumped at me and it reminded me where I work and to pay more attention to my surroundings,” Kalb said.
Despite having its ups and downs, there is still light in the work space.
“My favorite part of my job is when we had our patients we would teach them a skill they could maybe use to help them in their recovery,” Kalb said.
