Episode 164: The Belchertown State School

True Crime New England

Join Katie and Liz on this week’s special Halloween episode of True Crime New England as they venture into the history of Massachusetts' Belchertown State School. From the years of 1918-1992, this institution, beginning with the intent of reforming those with intellectual and physical disabilities and reintegrating them into society, steadily practiced neglect and mistreatment of nearly 1000 residents at a time. It wasn’t until the 1970’s that reports would come detailing the squalor, lack of staffing, and abuse these residents faced. Tune in to hear the disturbing and haunting facts surrounding the lives of those who lived at the Belchertown State School, and about several who have died there. Many believe the now abandoned school itself is haunted.