$29.95
A True Story: Exposing The Dark Secrets Of The Insane Asylum period. I did not know it was hell until that first night! A place of cruel torture, of starvation, of murder, of flagrant injustice, of hatred, of despair, and envy. As told By Sara Ramsey And written By Dorothy Ramsey Sara and James, who with all their hungry souls sought the truth and understanding of God’s Words, (as evidenced by her poetry throughout the book), were apprehended on December 18, 1912, judged and committed without a trial or defense for being impoverished street preachers and for living together while not being legally married by the laws of man.
They were sent to Patton State Hospital, then known as The Insane Asylum, in San Bernardino County, California. At the time qualifying afflictions included: religious excitement, spiritualism, worry, overwork, love affairs, seduction, alcoholism, drug and tobacco abuse, privation, politics, asthma, desertion by husband, grief, change of life and old age. Whether sent by a judge or family member, the poor unfortunates institutionalized lost every freedom and were deprived of human rights and dignity. The horrors were indelibly impressed in Sara’s mind. She felt if she told her story it could save others from anguish and torment. This story is important because people are important. How we treat the young, the elderly, weak, vulnerable, mentally ill or physically ill, the poor and homeless is ultimately a true reflection of our society.
Description
And What Is Hell?: A True Story is a haunting and deeply personal account that exposes the hidden horrors of early 20th-century mental institutions. As told by Sara Ramsey and written by Dorothy Ramsey, this powerful narrative reveals a world of injustice, suffering, and lost humanity—experienced firsthand within the walls of what was once known as the insane asylum.
In 1912, Sara and James—impoverished street preachers seeking truth and spiritual understanding—were arrested, judged, and committed without trial or defense. Their “offenses” reflected the harsh realities of the time: poverty, unconventional beliefs, and a life outside societal norms. They were sent to Patton State Hospital in San Bernardino County, where countless individuals were confined under vague and often unjust diagnoses.
Inside, Sara endured conditions marked by cruelty, deprivation, and despair. Through her memories and reflections, she sheds light on a system that stripped individuals of their dignity and basic human rights. Interwoven with her voice are expressions of faith and poetry, offering glimpses of hope amid unimaginable hardship.
What You’ll Discover:
• A firsthand account of life inside an early American mental institution
• The injustices faced by the poor, vulnerable, and misunderstood
• Historical insight into how mental health and “afflictions” were once defined
• A deeply human story of resilience, faith, and survival
• A powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and dignity
Why This Book Stands Out:
And What Is Hell? is more than a memoir—it is a voice for those who were silenced. It challenges readers to confront the darker aspects of history while reflecting on how society treats its most vulnerable members. Sara’s story serves as both a warning and a call for empathy, justice, and humanity.
Perfect For:
• Readers of true stories and historical memoirs
• Those interested in mental health history and human rights
• Students and educators exploring social justice and ethics
• Anyone seeking a powerful and thought-provoking narrative
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Publisher : Pyramid Press
- Publication date : January 30, 2016
- Edition : First Edition
- Language : English
- Print length : 200 pages
- ISBN-10 : 0989901769
- ISBN-13 : 978-0989901765
- Item Weight : 12.6 ounces
- Reading age : 14 years and up
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Dimensions : 5.5 x 0.8 x 8.5 inches
