Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: The Sad, Strange Tale of Margaret Schilling
Apr 24, 2024
Discover the haunting story of Margaret Schilling, who mysteriously vanished from a mental health facility in the 1970s. Her eerie disappearance unfolds against the backdrop of the Athens Lunatic Asylum, revealing the complexities of mental health care. Uncover the unsettling circumstances of her tragic death, and how her ghostly silhouette left an indelible mark on campus folklore. This chilling tale intertwines history, mystery, and local legend, exploring the legacy of a life that might have otherwise been forgotten.
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Emily's Film Project
- Emily Senebogen made a film about the Athens Lunatic Asylum for her senior project.
- She recalled ponds shaped like playing card suits on the grounds, a detail Chuck couldn't verify.
Kirkbride's Influence
- The Athens Lunatic Asylum, opened in 1874, was designed based on Dr. Thomas Kirkbride's "moral treatment" philosophy.
- Kirkbride advocated for large, airy hospitals with beautiful grounds, a stark contrast to the then-common practice of confining the mentally ill in basements and jails.
Margaret Schilling's Disappearance
- Margaret Schilling, a 53-year-old patient, was known for being trustworthy and allowed to roam the hospital grounds.
- When she didn't appear for dinner on December 1, 1978, the hospital initiated a search.