The important photographs featured on this page are courtesy of Nigel Lutt of the Bedford Records Office. They were found in 1976 by James Colletio-
They carry his logo and are his official photograph negatives of the asylum between 1870 and 1872. Some areas look unfinished and represent a builders yard. Work was obviously still ongoing in the 1870s. The asylum stands on a barren looking landscape and must have stood out for many to see for miles around. The roads around the asylum look to be no more than mud tracks. Throughout the pictures there seem to be a marked improvement in tree, grass and plant growth.
Note the clock tower. This was taken down after a couple of years as it was thought it spoilt the asylums lines.
Please request permission from the Bedford Records Office if you wish to use any of these pictures.
This view shows the back of the asylum. Most people in modern times know this area to be the front. The asylum has undergone the transformation into apartments and this is now officially the main entrance:
This was originally the front of the asylum. This view shows the male and female dining halls which are now the gymnasium and restaurant:
Another view of the asylum front. Note the large chimney on the left - this has long gone. No plants or grass can be seen in he muddy field surrounding the asylum. Also, St Luke's chapel has not been built yet:
This view of the asylum is no longer visible. It changed during phase one of the asylum extension. With the planting of bushes and trees the area is starting to take on a more friendly and homely look:
A view of the other end of the asylum. Again this view is no longer visible as it changed during phase one of the asylum's extension. The large building to the right has long been demolished but the pillared entrance still exists:
A very early view of the main entrance centre building. The male and female dining halls are to the right. No landscaping or planting has been done to the area:
This photo shows areas that have long since been demolished, extended or rebuilt. This area is totally unrecognisable now:
The main entrance side showing the railway line, which was vital for bringing in asylum supplies. This photo shows that work was still going on at this time:
A great view of the drive up to the asylum. Trees bushes and grass now line the way up. A welcoming site to the patients on their arrival:
A fantastic view of the rear of the asylum. Note the huge clock tower - this was removed after a couple of years as it was thought the clock ruined the pleasing lines of the asylum. The bell from it was used for St Luke's chapel:
