A New Group Dedicated

    Since I put up this section on my site, I have gotten much correspondence from people who were part of Anclote Manors. Several had expressed an interest in finding out what had happened to many fellow guests who they were close to. I finally figured out how to utilize yahoo groups and set one up for just such a purpose. I am still in the setting up phase, but here is a link to sign up if you are interested. Looking for anyone who wants to share their stories of "The Manors" both the good and the bad, and hopefully to help heal a few old wounds people are still carrying around with them. I hope you enjoy it.

Sincerely,

Azrahn

From Google Earth

Here is an aerial view of Anclote Manors that I just came across using a new program that is rather fascinating as much as it is terrifying called Google Earth, I would check it out, its awe inspiring what you can actually find there. http://www.earth.google.com 

That's what the compound looked like before its final demolition earlier last year

Tarpon Springs Dark Secret:

    Tucked away in the far back corner of Tarpon Springs Florida, near the mouth of the Anclote River, is hidden a very dark secret, called Anclote Manors.  It was a psychiatric care facility, or Lunatic Asylum if you would prefer. It became a fully functional hospital in the fifties. It also went through a number of name changes including; "The Manors", and at the time it was shut down was called; "North Pointe Behavioral Systems" 

    It was referred to as a "Medieval House Of Horrors" by the investigative prosecutor, who made a case about mistreatment of patients. Claims of patients being tied to their beds for weeks at a time, and being locked into their room for years on end, however the patients didn't complain about the medication levels. The hospital was closed down in 1997 ending its seventy year reign of terror on both the mentally ill, and those with superior insurance policies.

Patients were flown in from around the country (Thanks largely to a secret contract worked out with Northwest Airlines mind you) for a visit to "The Manors", most of which thought they were going on a vacation. They were then locked away until their insurance ran out. In the aftermath of the hospital, it would seem that the only stipulation for being insane was to have an insurance policy. 

It wasn't always a hell hole, in the early 20's, it was a luxurious spa, home to many of the elite of the day, from political figures, to celebrities, it was the "In" place to be during this time and was called the "Sunset Hills Country Club". 

After the hotel and country club folded, it became a hospital in 1953. In later years it became a stop on what the Saint Petersburg Times called in their crippling investigation of patient brokering the "Patient Pipeline". Which ended up being the catalyst for the closing of the facility. Ironically many people owe their very sanity to the St. Pete Times and this story.

In the surrounding neighborhood, many residents will share stories of how patients wandered onto their properties, and on an occasion or two even into their homes. It is no wonder that the city and surrounding neighborhoods got nervous and boycotted any plans that involved "Re-opening a hospital".

It is not hard to imagine these tales are true, I have been there, although in many areas dilapidated, the security in it's hay day, would have been at best amateur. Its main strength would be a very large open field from the buildings to the surrounding neighborhood. From what I have read about the hospital the most difficult part would have been escaping the medications, and being able to wake up enough to want to flee.

In the last days of the hospital, there were only five patients remaining. They weren't transferred, or placed elsewhere within the medical community. They were simply shown the front door.

In February of 2003 Anclote Manors and its properties were finally sold, as of this writing the plans are to demolish the asbestos layered buildings, and put up luxury townhouses. It is scheduled for demolition the first of August this year. 

The building have been vacant since 1997, and are still in remarkable shape. The security patrols that monitor for vandals have proven to be very efficient at keeping the place safe from intruders. I have spoken with several of them over the last couple years since I stumbled onto this place. I was also fortunate enough to gain permission to walk around the compound and get several photographs. 

But alas another part of history is to be leveled in the name of progress. Although it would seem that most of the neighbors and the city itself will be glad to be rid of this terrible chapter of our cities past.

That is a brief history of the Anclote Manors Facility. On the left are a few buttons that will take you to my external photo shots, and other miscellaneous adventures into the chamber of horrors for your enjoyment. 

 Many have asked me if the place is haunted. I would have to say that it is more "Haunting" than haunted so to speak. Many lives have been ruined over this property, both patient wise and staff wise. Any place that bears witness to this kind of tragedy is going to leave its mark. Walking amid the dormant halls and wings of the main building, there is definitely an overwhelming sensation of sorrow in many parts of the hospital. Although reflecting on my adventures within, I have to admit, there were  moments when I could almost see into the past. Perhaps a lost soul whispering in my ear, trying to tell their story so they could move onto their own next adventure. Who knows... anything is possible.

Enjoy,

Azrahn