Dansk Forsorgshistorisk Museum

Origins at Andersvænge

The Danish Forsorgshistorisk Museum occupies the grounds of the former Andersvænge, a key institution in Slagelse established in the early 20th century for the care of individuals deemed intellectually disabled. This site served as one of Denmark's primary facilities for what was then called åndssvageforsorg, reflecting the era's institutional approach to social welfare. Buildings that once housed hundreds now stand as silent witnesses to evolving care practices, their architecture blending functional design with the somber history of segregation.

Exhibits on Institutional Life

Inside, displays recreate the daily realities of residents through original furnishings, clothing, and tools from workshops where forced labor was common. Visitors encounter rooms depicting dormitories, work areas, and medical facilities, highlighting the regimented routines that defined life here. Archival photos and documents reveal the scale of operations, with Andersvænge accommodating residents from across Denmark during its peak.

Forced Labor and Sterilization Practices

A core focus traces the harsh labor systems imposed on residents, from farming to crafting, often under coercive conditions. The museum confronts the painful history of forced sterilizations, legally sanctioned in Denmark until 1967, with exhibits drawing on personal testimonies and medical records. These sections underscore how societal fears and pseudoscience shaped policies affecting thousands.

Shifts in Perception and Reform

Later galleries chart the transformation in attitudes from the mid-20th century onward, as deinstitutionalization gained momentum. Interactive elements and timelines illustrate the move toward community-based care, influenced by human rights advocacy and medical advancements. Artifacts from closure in the 1970s mark the end of an era, emphasizing dignity and inclusion in contemporary welfare.

Preservation and Educational Role

Curated with input from local historians, the collection safeguards fragile items like resident letters and administrative ledgers, ensuring this narrative endures. The museum's location in Slagelse ties it to regional history, complementing broader Danish heritage sites. Guided tours on Thursdays delve deeper, fostering reflection on ethics in care provision.