The story
Founded in 1887 as the Territorial Insane Asylum, the Arizona State Hospital has operated continuously for over 135 years, housing thousands of patients in conditions that ranged from progressive to deeply disturbing over its history. The original 1887 building, known as Building 1, is the most active paranormal area. Investigators report hearing screaming, moaning, and the sound of chains from the basement area where patients were once restrained. Shadow figures are frequently reported in the corridors, and former staff members describe unexplained phenomena occurring regularly.
What's reported here
Paranormal investigators and former staff report hearing screams, moaning and the sound of chains in the original hospital building, particularly around the basement. Shadow figures, unexplained footsteps, cold spots and an unsettling feeling of being watched are also commonly described in the corridors.
History & background
Founded in 1887 as the Territorial Insane Asylum, Arizona State Hospital has provided psychiatric care for more than 135 years. While the hospital remains an active medical facility, its original Building 1 is closely associated with the institution's early history, when changing approaches to mental health treatment reflected both the advances and hardships of the era.