The weekly clarion. [volume] (Jackson, Miss.) 1863-1882, 1879-05-14
The Lunatic Asylum-Dr. II. j.
Mitchell

1t has been more than year since We
wrote that from long list of able and
worthy applicants, the Governor had
appointed DR. T. J. Mitchell Superin-
fendent of the Lunatic Asylum We
said that he was thoroughly educated in
/ his profession That he would bring to
+ his medical learning and experience,
executive ability and a humane and
/ generous nature; and that nothing
which study and laborious effort could
accomplish to promote the comfort, and
effect the cure of the unfortunate beings
entrusted to his care, would be left
undone. These assurances were given
because we knew the opinion pre-
vailed with many, that the position
which had been so ably filled by the late,
lamented DIR. W. NJ Compton could not
be supplied with equal capacity and
efficiency, and there was painful APP
prehension that this great institution
upon which the State has lavished her
| treasure, wonld anguish under any other
management All that we have assured
the public III commentator of the
present Superintendent has been con-
firmed by the successful manner in
which he has discharged the responsible
and trying duties of his office. The
most perfect system and order
are enforced in his administrations De-
voting all his energies and skill to the
management of the institution and the
nothing is neglected that is needed to
carry out the humane objects of the
asylum. The utmost care has been ia
ken III the employment of capable and
kind attendants; but leaving nothing to
be done by proxy, the Superintendent
himself supervises his employees, and
has scrutinizing eye to the minutest
details of the institution. The cleanli-
ness of the building and premises re-
ceive careful attention The laws. of
health are rigidly enforced. Dr. Mitch
ell Is observant of the condition of each
one ofhis severalhundred patients. Their
diseases, their peculiarities, and idiosyn-
cracies are all closely studied They
look to him as their tender protect
or and guide. Like children who look
up to loving parents, they put their
trust in him; and there is no com
plant to which he does not listen
with sympathizing attention. 1t is
a signal triumph of DR. Mitchell-a
testimonial Of his vigilance and skill
that he protected the institution from
the yellow fever scourge when it was
at its very doors last season; and it is
well here to state that with characters
tic forethought he has already prepared
for another seige of the destroying foe
should it make its approach the present
season. Every description of supplies |
has been laid up, and if it comes, it will |
not take him unawares. He will be
ready for the quarantine which NAV be
necessary for the protection of the
patients.
An additional improvement is greatly
needed at the institution. a separate |
building should be erected for the family |
IF the Superintendent. They are now
occupying space in the main building
which might be converted into apart
nents for patients and as it is now
'rowded to overfowing, the addition
would be a measure of economy and
1t is the rule of the Super
ntendent never to refuse an application
or admission while it is possible to make
Dom ''for one more"