Uploaded July 2019 | Updated September 2026, 2 days ago
Originally designed in 1858 - then delayed by the U.S. Civil War - and completed in 1885, the Babcock Building served as the American south's largest psychiatric hospital for more than 50 years. Originally called the South Carolina Lunatic Asylum, the building was closed in 2001 and has since experienced a major roof fire, which will cost more than $400,000 to repair. The area surrounding this historic site is currently being demolished in order to build apartments.
Originally designed in 1858 - then delayed by the U.S. Civil War - and completed in 1885, the Babcock Building served as the American south's largest psychiatric hospital for more than 50 years. Originally called the South Carolina Lunatic Asylum, the building was closed in 2001 and has since experienced a major roof fire, which will cost more than $400,000 to repair. The area surrounding this historic site is currently being demolished in order to build apartments.
