The Haverson Asylum was erected in 1957, early in the city's history. The location was chosen due to King George Cove's fresh sea air and isolation from the state's larger cities, where it was believed that the peacefulness would assist in the recovery of mental patients.

Under the direction of the revolutionary Dr. Timothy Verne, the asylum gained a great deal of renown in the medical community for the success experienced in treating patients with extreme sociopathic disorders. Haverson Asylum was so well known that several of the Holywood starlets and oil moguls who suffered breakdowns were submitted to the hospital by family members seeking Dr. Verne's renowned skills in curing their loved ones.

The facility had to be shut down in the autumn of 1968, however, after several crimes associated with escaped inmates over a period of three months. In the resulting backlash, Dr. Verne's theraputic techniques were blamed, and he was prohibited from praticing medicine.

Today Haverson is a preserved historical site that provides a fascinating look into the mid-century techniques used to cure mental illness, and visitors can take guided tours through the chilling halls of the past. To check tour schedules and prices, call the Haverson Asylum Museum at 360.555.1926. Don't forget to check out their gift shop for unique mementos to bring your loved ones!