The State Lunatic Asylum was the first state-owned hospital in Texas, established in the same year as the Blind School and the Deaf and Dumb Asylum. Once far removed from the city, the asylum now sits on its several acres surrounded by 1950s-era suburbs. Its parklike setting was an asset to patient treatment and an attraction to Austin citizens for holiday gatherings when there were few other city parks. The first portion of the raised three-story building was constructed in 1857 in Italianate style; additions in 1879 and 1893 are more Classical Revival in emphasis. The hexastyle classical facade was added to the central pavilion in 1904. The building has been adapted throughout its continued use, but the exterior reflects its 1904 appearance.