Thomas Story Kirkbride (1809-1883) was an American psychiatrist and a key figure in the development of mental health care in the 19th century. He is best known for his role in establishing the Kirkbride Plan, which advocated for the construction of large, well-ventilated, and aesthetically pleasing psychiatric hospitals. His approach emphasized the importance of a therapeutic environment for patients. Kirkbride's ideas were influential in shaping the design and operation of mental health facilities across the United States. He believed that proper architecture and a supportive community could significantly improve the treatment of individuals with mental illnesses, paving the way for modern psychiatric care practices.