Exploring the Abandoned Historic Seaview Tuberculosis Hospital in New York

Seaview Hospital, located on Staten Island, New York, has a long and significant history that spans over a century. It was originally established in the late 19th century, primarily as a facility for treating tuberculosis (TB), which was a major health crisis at the time. The hospital was originally part of the public health efforts to manage the spread of infectious diseases.

Early History:
**Founded in the late 1800s**: Seaview Hospital was founded in 1905 as a tuberculosis sanatorium, as part of New York City's broader efforts to combat TB. It was situated on the southern shore of Staten Island, offering a large, open space ideal for the fresh air treatments that were commonly prescribed for TB patients at the time.
**Location**: The location was carefully chosen for its proximity to the water and its relatively isolated setting, which was thought to be beneficial for patients suffering from respiratory diseases. The name "Seaview" was likely chosen to reflect this coastal setting.

Tuberculosis Era:
Seaview was one of several sanatoriums in New York City focused on treating tuberculosis patients. During the early 20th century, TB was a leading cause of death, and the sanatoriums provided care in the form of fresh air, rest, and nutritious food, which were considered essential treatments before antibiotics like streptomycin became available.
Over the years, the hospital's mission expanded to include not only TB treatment but also care for other chronic diseases and conditions.

Mid-20th Century:
**Post-TB Era**: With the advent of antibiotics and the decline of tuberculosis in the 1950s and 1960s, Seaview transitioned its focus toward general medical care and rehabilitation, including for patients with long-term illnesses and disabilities.
In the mid-20th century, Seaview began to take in patients with chronic illnesses, and it also became a facility for long-term care, serving as a home for those with disabilities and other conditions that required extended medical care.

Later Years:
**Change in Services**: As medical practices continued to evolve, Seaview Hospital shifted away from its original mission as a tuberculosis treatment center. It became part of the growing network of facilities offering long-term care and rehabilitation services, particularly for patients with complex medical needs.
**Closure and Legacy**: In the early 2000s, the facility's role within the healthcare system became more focused on serving as a long-term care facility, including for patients with chronic conditions like Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. However, as healthcare needs and hospital structures changed, Seaview was eventually closed in 2006.

Current Status:
**Transformation of the Site**: After the closure of Seaview Hospital, the site underwent a series of changes. Some of the buildings on the property were demolished, while others were repurposed for different uses. The location has become part of the broader development of Staten Island’s southern shore.

Seaview Hospital's history reflects a larger shift in the treatment of infectious diseases, the changing landscape of healthcare, and the evolving needs of patients throughout the 20th century. Its legacy continues as part of Staten Island's medical and cultural history.

I was joined here today by:
‪@lordexplores‬

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