The New York State Lunatic Asylum, also known as the Utica State Hospital, was established in 1843 in Utica, New York. It was one of the first public mental health facilities in the United States, designed to provide care for individuals with mental illnesses. The asylum aimed to offer a more humane approach to treatment compared to the harsh conditions often found in jails or poorhouses. Throughout its history, the asylum underwent various changes in treatment methods and patient care. It was known for its innovative practices, including the use of occupational therapy. The facility eventually closed in 1978, reflecting the broader shift towards community-based mental health care and the deinstitutionalization movement in the United States.