Once one of America's largest mental hospitals (over 8,000 patients at peak), Manteno closed December 31, 1985, and its cottage-plan campus was carved into the Illinois Veterans Home, the Diversatech industrial park, housing, and a golf course. Most abandoned cottages have been progressively demolished for safety, leaving only scattered remnants such as Morgan Cottage, the old sewage plant, utility tunnels, and the patient cemetery east of the campus. The cemetery is visitable, but remaining derelict structures sit on actively used private and state property with real security presence; asbestos and collapsing interiors are the main physical hazards.
Vestige documents abandoned & historic places for education and preservation. Always obtain permission before visiting and follow local law.