Delaware State Hospital Cemetery

The Delaware State Hospital opened in 1889. In its early decade, the hospital cared for people with mental illness, developmental disabilities, brain injuries, seizure disorders, dementia, substance disorders, and other conditions. Burials in the hospital’s cemetery occurred between 1891 and 1983. Most patients died of causes unrelated to their mental health. The circular pattern of the gravestones was a noteworthy design in the late 19th century. The cemetery includes 768 patients, three employees, and four other individuals. Three of the interred are military veterans.