New Jersey is home to countless beautiful parks, but only a handful have dark, disturbing histories. If you’re into scary stories and pretty places, you’ll definitely want to learn more about Skillman Village.

In 1898, the New Jersey State Village for epileptics was founded.
Dom Turner
It was originally established to be a supportive atmosphere where patients could thrive. It became a self contained city with educational facilities, a theater, working farm and more.
Dom Turner
But the center had a dark secret - eugenics and forced sterilization. Doctors believed these patients should not be able to reproduce; luckily, the courts disagreed.
Dom Turner
When the Great Depression hit, the facility suffered from overcrowding and gained the nickname, "The Snake Pit of New Jersey."
Dom Turner

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In 1953, the facility was turned into the New Jersey Neuro-Psychiatric Institute. This new institution focused on treatment and research of alcoholics, drug-addicts, people with cerebral palsy, and emotionally disturbed children. The facility closed down in 1995.
Dom Turner
The property sat abandoned for years, a popular spot for urban explorers.
Flickr/Amelia Gapin
Eventually, the land was purchased by Montgomery Township with the intent of creating a park.
Dom Turner
In 2012, demolition was completed with just one or two buildings remaining.
Yelp/Emma M.
Now, the park is a Somerset County Park with a paved 2.2-mile multi-use trail.
Yelp/Emma M.

Now a picturesque brookside sanctuary, a cemetery still stands as a reminder of what was. Have you been to Skillman Park? Did you know about its chilling past? To find it, head to Main Boulevard in Skillman. For another unique park in New Jersey, check out this Jersey City cemetery, park and community gathering spot.

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