An exhibition marking the centenary of Bloomfield Hospital is on display at Orange Regional Museum.
Bloomfield: 1925-2025 traces a century of changing care, social attitudes, community life and culture in Orange and the Central West. It draws upon Bloomfield Hospital’s collection, Orange Regional Museum’s collection, and community loans and donations.
Bloomfield Hospital’s history has been deeply entwined with that of Orange and the Central West since it opened as Orange Mental Hospital on 6 November 1925, from employment and education to sport, arts and community events.
Orange Mayor, Tony Mileto said the exhibition shared the history of Bloomfield from the dedication of the site in the late 19th century to the present.
“One hundred years is an extraordinary span of time, and Bloomfield Hospital has been a cornerstone of life in our region throughout it,” Cr Mileto said.
“The sheer volume of stories, records and memories connected to this place is immense, and this exhibition is a vital opportunity to preserve and share that legacy with the community.”
Orange City Council’s Recreation and Culture Policy Committee Chair, Cr Tammy Greenhalgh said the exhibition featured a wealth of material including rare photographs and film, compelling objects, personal stories and interactive displays.
“This exhibition is a rich archive of Bloomfield’s past and offers a comprehensive insight into how mental health care has evolved over the last century,” Cr Greenhalgh said.
“It’s a powerful reflection of how deeply Bloomfield has shaped our community over the past century. I urge everyone to visit the exhibition and take the time to gain a comprehensive insight into the experiences of those who lived and worked there.”
Bloomfield: 1925-2025 will be officially launched at a free community event at 6pm Thursday 6 November, at Orange Regional Museum.
Bookings are essential at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/orange-regional-museum-13003898528.
The exhibition will be open until 26 July, 2026. Orange Regional Museum is open from 9am to 4pm daily.
