This project could not have been a success without the help and support of so many. Sometimes, it takes a village... And these people have been my village.
First, I would like to extend my most sincere thanks to those who were kind enough to grant me an interview. I am honored to have heard the fascinating, personal, and insightful stories of those who have aided in shaping the north country into what it is today, and am thankful for the time I had with these phenomenal individuals!
- Mrs. Katherine Briggs was an absolute joy to work with, and her wisdom and stories have not only given me a clearer understanding of north country psychiatry and the community, but also a clearer understanding of life. It was an honor to share her memories with such an outstanding, insightful woman.
- Mr. Brian Doe was extremely helpful in providing a fascinating account of the history of the St. Lawrence State Hospital, and was kind enough to take the time out of his busy schedule to provide me with more information on both the history of the institution, and what he is doing with the St. Lawrence State Hospital Preservation Society. It was a pleasure hearing Brian's stories!
Secondly, I would like to thank my Oral History Professor, Doctor Laura Ettinger, for her never faltering guidance and advice. Between igniting me with passion for this project, helping me understand oral history, proof reading over and over, and pushing me to give 110 percent, Professor Ettinger has invested just as much into this project as myself. The level of commitment I put into this project rests is a reflection of the level of commitment to her students, and I am honored to have worked with her.
Thirdly, I would like to thank Mary Cabral, Clarkson University's Reference Librarian (or, as some call her, Clarkson's Librarian Goddess). Ms. Cabral was the driving factor behind the background information that was put into this paper, and without her expertise, I would not have learned half of the things I did about the St. Lawrence Psychiatric Center.
I would also like to thank Samantha DeRooy and Professor Gary Kelly for answering all of my nagging emails begging for any and all information. Both were a huge help when I first began tackling this project.