Haverhill Village Asylum

Porter's Lodge

This building in Cambridge proper is part of the Open Way for historical reasons. When the main Haverhill estate was abandoned in 1908 after the mass suicide of its inhabitants, this building was also left empty.

The British Government claimed the grounds of both buildings in order to provide "safe homes" for the aimless and depressed young men who returned home traumatized by WWII. (This is also when Superintendent Harford Locksley came up with the asylum's name after an inspirational dream.)

In the 1940s through 1960s this building was used as an admissions facility for the "safe houses". However, as the influx of veterans slowed, it was ultimately closed and now the Porter's Lodge is maintained as an historical site.

Main Building, North View

You can see here the main building of The Open Way across the main lawn (from within the perimeter fence).

As the institution aged, it evolved. With its peaceful setting at the edge of town and acres of calming greenery, it became obvious The Open Way was a tranquil place to house the more violently troubled. It gradually evolved into the current institution, with security measures to protect the surrounding community, and a kind and caring staff who help the violently ill to live out the remainder of their lives in peace.

Main Building, Southeast View

You can see here one side of the "T"-shaped building and its surrounding greenery.

It is indeed fortunate that such a proud and historic institution continues to serve the Haverhill community, considering the surge in violent crimes that has taken place locally within the last decade. As the stress of living in the modern age continues to take its toll on the young men and women of England, the Open Way will always be available as a refuge for those who need some peace and quiet in order to learn to live gracefully within our society.