Pennhurst State School & Hospital

Chester County · dedicated 2010 · Schuylkill Rd. (PA 724) near Bridge St., Spring City

Between 1908 and 1987, more than 10,500 Pennsylvanians with developmental disabilities lived here. Public controversy over the inhumane treatment of residents and two decades of complex litigation, including three arguments before the US Supreme Court, led to the institution's closure. Groundbreaking advocacy and new public policy, including transition to community-based living, made Pennhurst a milestone in the disabilities civil rights movement.

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Marker data: Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission via data.pa.gov

Pennhurst State School & Hospital

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