A Journey Through Time
Explore the history of the Hospital for the Incurably Insane, from its one building beginning to its evolution into the Hastings Regional Center. This timeline highlights key moments and transformations that shaped the institution's lifespan.
1888: The Beginning
In 1887, a budget of $75,000 was allocated to construct a "Hospital for the Incurably Insane," with the stipulation that the city of Hastings provide 160 acres of land for the project. Hastings, however, went above and beyond and donated approximately 630 acres, paving the way for construction to begin in 1888. The initial structure featured a three-story brick building with a central tower, designed by Hastings' own architect, Charles C. Rittenhouse. (Hastings State Hospital 2025)
Photo curtesy of The Nebraska State Historical Society
Society, Nebraska State Historical. circa 1910. "Nebraska State Hospital. Hastings. Nebraska." 5083 Collection Code: RG2923
1891-1895: A Time for Change
In 1891, the hospital underwent a significant transformation with the addition of north and south wings to the original structure. Just a few years later, in 1895, the institution experienced another major milestone when the legislature officially renamed it the Asylum for the Chronic Insane.
Photo curtesy of The Nebraska State Historical Society
Society, Nebraska State Historical. circa 1910. "Nebraska State Hospital. Hastings. Nebraska." 5049 Collection Code: RG2923
1904: Nebraska State Hospital
The name shifted again in 1905 to Nebraska State Hospital. After the status of the name of the hospital was once again brought before the legislature it was chosen to rename it once again, but only for a short while.
(Ingleside n.d.)
Photo curtesy of The Nebraska State Historical Society
Society, Nebraska State Historical. circa 1910. "Nebraska State Hospital. Hastings. Nebraska." 5083 Collection Code: RG2923
1915: Ingleside State Hospital
In 1915, the institution became known as the Ingleside State Hospital. After money was granted to build a new hospital, a night watch building, and a sewage disposal plant. (Dolberg 2015)
Photo curtesy of The Nebraska State Historical Society
Society, Nebraska State Historical. circa 1910. "Nebraska State Hospital. Hastings. Nebraska." 5104 Collection Code: RG2923
1971: Hastings Regional Center
The hospital underwent its final name change in 1971, becoming the Hastings Regional Center. This name remained until its closure and the demolition of most of its buildings in 2022. (Ventura 2022)
Photo curtesy of Trish Eklund
Eklund, Trish. 2016. "Hastings Regional Center." Abandoned, Forgotten, & Decayed. January 29. https://abandonedforgottendecayed.com/2016/01/29/hastings-regional-center-2/.
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