Program

NYS Historic

Subject

Government, Industry & Commerce

Location

7267 Barkersville Rd, Middle Grove, NY 12850, USA

Lat/Long

43.103101, -74.020835

Grant Recipient

Saratoga County

Tuberculosis, also known as TB, or consumption, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that has claimed the lives of many throughout history. Fortunately, through the advances of modern medicine, tuberculosis is now effectively treated and prevented through vaccination. Prior to these developments little could be done for a person infected with TB. One method enacted to prevent the of spread of tuberculosis was to contain patients in hospitals or sanitariums, in out of the way locations. An October 19, 1915 article in the Post Star newspaper entitled “Gaining Against Tuberculosis” states:

On every person afflicted with this disease rests the duty of protecting his family from infection. In a county tuberculosis hospital he can secure the treatment that he needs, spend his days of sickness more comfortably than any other place and at the same time be sure that the germs of the disease are not infecting his loved ones at home.

These facilities housed patients and provided long term care and treatment for their condition. The Homestead was one such example. Located a short distance from the Adirondacks, in the Town of Providence, The Saratoga County Tuberculosis Hospital, known as the “The Homestead”, was used to care for Saratoga County residents suffering from TB between 1914-1960.  In 1961 The Homestead reopened as a county nursing home. Renovated and retrofitted to accommodate and care for nearly 100 patients as well provide housing for staff members, the Saratoga County Homestead remained open until August 1979, as explained in the Proceedings of the Board of Supervisors:

The Homestead Infirmary buildings at Barkersville became vacant in late August when the County HRF patients were transferred to the expanded facilities in Ballston Spa. Unenthusiastic reports filed by the representatives from the State Departments for Youth and State Commission of Corrections confirmed that although the main buildings remain structurally sound, they are outdated and no longer required for County use.

As of 2020, The Homestead still stands abandoned. After years severe neglect and damage from vandalism, its future remains unknown.