Austin State Hospital
historical marker
The Austin State Hospital is located in Austin, Travis County, Texas. It was chartered by the Sixth Texas Legislature in 1856, initially named the State Lunatic Asylum. Operations began in May 1861 with twelve patients. This institution is the oldest hospital in Texas for the care and treatment of the mentally ill, and the oldest continuously operating psychiatric facility west of the Mississippi River. In 1925, its name officially changed to Austin State Hospital. A historical marker was erected here in 1966 by the State Historical Survey Committee, recognizing its long history and dedication to mental health programs. The administration building was also designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark that same year.