Ornery History: 19th century women and their “insane” minds

It’s real history, as told by some angry dude in my comments section and me.

Jan 24, 2024

This post contains out of date language on mental illness and mention of genital mutilation. Reader discretion is advised.

This is part one of three on the story of placing women in insane asylums in the 19th century. Usually before I begin I have my script written of the story I wish to tell. Steven here was just such a delightful man I couldn’t help but launch into some tidbits before I was entirely ready. The second part will focus on the life of Elizabeth Packard, who as you might guess, was placed in an insane asylum in the 19th century. The third will focus specifically on the treatment of women of color in asylums.

I’m using the term insane asylum to stay historically accurate. Now we would call this a psychiatric hospital and thankfully due to feminists and human rights activists, they operate a bit differently.

Steven, for all his claims of knowing what type of men are on my page, didn’t seem to understand that my bit is not to find a date, but to teach the most unwilling of students.

I’m bringing this one to everyone for free, but I would greatly appreciate any monetary support. Paid subscriptions are only $5 a month and you get the added benefit of additional stories no one else can see. If you can, consider helping me by subscribing.

A note on Steven. Technically he didn’t say I couldn’t message him, what he said was he was married. His wife wouldn’t share him with me, which is quite unfortunate for my poor heart. Perhaps if I menstruated more.

Oh and what was it that so badly upset Steven? This post which ended up being exactly what I did to him.