Documentary 'Utica' Explores History of Old Main Asylum

Film screening and talk at Oneida County History Center highlight the innovative past of the former New York State Lunatic Asylum

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A recent screening of the documentary film 'Utica' at the Oneida County History Center provided an in-depth look at the history of the former New York State Lunatic Asylum, also known as Old Main. The film, which was granted special permission to film inside the now-abandoned asylum, explores the building's innovative past, including the invention of the 'Utica Crib' by the asylum's first superintendent, Dr. Amiriah Brigham. The screening featured a talk by actor Mark Hanna, who portrayed Brigham, as well as a book signing by local author Dennis Webster, who wrote 'The New York State Lunatic Asylum at Utica: A History of Old Main'.

Why it matters

The documentary 'Utica' sheds light on the complex history of mental health treatment and the evolution of psychiatric care in the United States. The Utica Asylum, with its progressive yet controversial methods, played a significant role in the development of modern psychiatry, and the film's exploration of this history provides valuable context for understanding the challenges and progress in this field.

The details

The Utica Asylum, which opened in 1843 at a cost of $250,000 (around $11 million today), was built with the intention of having a 'Utopian' look, featuring six massive Doric columns that were the largest freestanding columns in the state. The asylum was chosen for its convenient central location in New York and easy access by rail and waterways like the Erie Canal. The documentary film 'Utica' was granted special permission to film inside the now-abandoned asylum, providing viewers with a rare glimpse into the building's past.

  • The Oneida County History Center screening of 'Utica' took place last month.
  • The New York State Lunatic Asylum at Utica, also known as Old Main, opened in 1843.

The players

Dr. Amiriah Brigham

The first superintendent of the Utica Asylum, Brigham invented the 'Utica Crib' and founded the American Journal of Insanity (now named the American Journal of Psychiatry), among many other achievements.

Mark Hanna

An actor who portrayed the 'ghost' of Dr. Amiriah Brigham during the screening of the 'Utica' documentary, educating viewers about Brigham's role and the history of the asylum.

Dennis Webster

A local author who wrote 'The New York State Lunatic Asylum at Utica: A History of Old Main', and was on hand for a book signing at the screening.

Oneida County History Center

The venue that hosted the screening of the 'Utica' documentary and talk about the history of the Utica Asylum.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.