| "On the 25th October 1933 a new era began for the mentally ill and their relatives in County Louth. It was on that day that the newly built St Brigid's Hospital opened its doors to its first patients who were transferred from St Ita's Hospital, Dublin. Until that historic day approximately 320 patients from County Louth were receiving treatment in what was known as the Richmond Asylum in Dublin.
From the beginning of the century many cogent arguments were put forward by the public representatives of County Louth in favour of having its own hospital for the treatment of the mentally ill. The cost of the service in Dublin and the inconvenience of travel were major factors necessitating the separation.
From 1919 under the chairmanship of Mr Patrick McGee plans were actively pursued to bring about the separation. A committee was appointed to make the necessary preparations. Many logical arguments were put forward in support of having the new hospital in Dundalk. Equally valid arguments supported Ardee. Due to various circumstances some years passed before it was eventually agreed to build the new hospital on the Ruxton Estate in Ardee. Mr James T McGee, Roodstown, Ardee, was now chairman of the Louth County Council. He played a major role in obtaining the hospital for Ardee.
The County Council appointed Mr J. F. McGahon, Architect, to prepare plans. The Local Government Department insisted on competitive plans. The plans which were accepted were submitted by Mr Wright, an Architect from Newcastle Upon Tyne, England.
The contract to build the hospital was awarded to Messrs. Thornberry Brothers, Belfast. The cost was £120,000 approximately. |
