Pride Isle Sanatorium
| Pride Isle Sanatorium | |
|---|---|
Sanatori Haka'i Ara | |
 | |
| General information | |
| Status | Abandoned |
| Type | Sanatorium/psychiatric complex |
| Architectural style | Kakish eclectic |
| Location | Island of Hala'ube |
| Town or city | Stravonia |
| Country | Pohnpenesia |
| Construction started | 1811 |
| Completed | 1815 |
| Opened | 1816 |
| Closed | 1965 |
| Owner | None |
| Technical details | |
| Lifts/elevators | 2 |
| Design and construction | |
| Architect | Hanais Bel Don |
| Architecture firm | Kakish-Pohnpenesian Trading Company |
| Main contractor | Riamese government |
| Known for | Severe cases of violence, urban legend |
| Other information | |
| Number of units | 6 |
| Facilities | 8 |
The Pride Isle Sanatorium, locally known as Sanatori Haka'i Ara in the native Pohnpenesian language, is an abandoned sanatorium complex located on the Island of Hala'ube near the town of Stravonia, Pohnpenesia. Constructed between 1811 and 1815 under the supervision of renowned architect Hanais Bel Don and the Kakish-Pohnpenesian Trading Company, the Pride Isle Sanatorium opened its doors to patients in 1816. It was initially intended to provide medical treatment for individuals suffering from tuberculosis and other respiratory ailments, and gradually evolved to cater to mental institutions.
Throughout its history, the Pride Isle Sanatorium became infamous for its dark and troubling past, marred by mistreatment of the LGBTQ+ community, numerous reports of haunted spirits, as well as a history of murder and cultism. Severe cases of torture and resident neglect have been attributed to this institution, crumbling the reputation of the local community.
The architectural style of the sanatorium is described as Kakish eclectic, blending elements of traditional Pohnpenesian design with unique Kakish influences. The complex comprises six units, 8 facility buildings and features two elevators, which were added in a building expansion in 1867.
In 1965, due to changing medical practices and societal reforms, the Pride Isle Sanatorium was permanently closed, left to the mercy of time and nature. Since then, the decaying structure has become the subject of urban legends, drawing thrill-seekers, paranormal enthusiasts, and historians to uncover the mysteries that surround its infamous corridors.
History
Early years
The Pride Isle Sanatorium holds the distinction of being the first mental institution and sanatorium ever built in Pohnpenesia. Its establishment was driven by the urgent need for tuberculosis care and improved healthcare services in the Pohnpenesian archipelago. Initially, the Riamese colonial government intended to construct a psychiatric complex in the city of Harpan. However, the responsibility was entrusted to the renowned Kakish architect, Hanais Bel Don, and the Kakish-Pohnpenesian Trading Company (K.P.T.C), who were granted the opportunity to finance and oversee the construction of the complex.
In accordance with the contractual agreement, the ambitious project commenced during the winter of 1811. A vast expanse of land, previously occupied by a thriving pear farm, was cleared to make way for the construction of the sanatorium. Over the course of four years, a dedicated team of architects, engineers, and laborers worked diligently to realize the vision of the complex.
With attention to detail, Hanais Bel Don incorporated a blend of traditional Pohnpenesian design elements and distinctive Kakish architectural influences, resulting in the creation of a unique and eclectic structure. The construction reached its completion in 1815, marking a significant milestone for healthcare infrastructure in Pohnpenesia.
Upon its inauguration in 1816, the Pride Isle Sanatorium opened its doors to patients in desperate need of specialized tuberculosis treatment and respiratory care. The location, strategically chosen near the settlement of Stravonia on the rolling and generally unsettled island of Hala'ube, provided a tranquil environment, believed to aid in the healing process.
As the first of its kind in the region, the sanatorium played a pivotal role in addressing the pressing healthcare challenges faced by the local native population. It served as a beacon of hope for those suffering from tuberculosis and respiratory ailments, offering modern medical facilities and pioneering treatment methods, financed and maintained by the Riamese government.
Expansion
Initially dedicated to providing sanatorial care for tuberculosis patients, the Pride Isle Sanatorium experienced a significant expansion and diversification of its facilities in the years that followed. Recognizing the growing need for psychiatric care and treatment of mentally ill and disabled individuals, the complex underwent rapid development from the 1830s to the 1850s.
In response to the escalating demand for psychiatric services in Pohnpenesia, the Kakish-Pohnpenesian Trading Company initiated the construction of a dedicated psychiatric ward within the sanatorium. Completed in 1830, this new facility became an integral part of the complex, offering specialized care and treatment for patients with mental health disorders.