Smiley

hahaha i remember doin tht jus for fun

Beware....Smiley is watching you.

watch out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! , he,s watching you

beware hes the demon he's watching you

sort of off topic but i just relized there are no pictures of champs ouch or killadelphia but oh well i love the site great photography and i helps me look at byberry in many different ways... by the way some one sprayed over killadelphia anyay...

bring a little cheer to the gloomy looking place.

i have actually been in the byberry mansion quite a few times it is very spooky ,,but neat

Mansion? There's over two dozen buildings there.

Thanks for sharing your photos, I really enjoyed them. And hello to my former hometown... oh how I miss Philadelphia.

This was an excellent tour. I had read about 'Byberry' before. All about how they abused their patients, etc etc etc.

Thank you for the wonderful pictures.

I shall now visit Radical Ed's site.

Thanks Puddleboy but it's just some pics I took a while ago. I have over a thousand now but no knowlege or skill to put them into a proper site. (Like this one.)

Oh, come now, Sir, you could learn.
Old dogs can learn new tricks.

Ed, I enjoyed the historical value of the old pics. It's a wonderful compliment (and contrast) to the pictures here.

As for uploading your additional photos to a proper site, there are places where you could upload pictures to, such as 'Webshots'. I have a Webshots page, http://community.websh...om/user/puddleboy100 These are easy to work with. I hope someday to have a right and proper website too, but for now I'm satisfied with my Webshots page, my photo blog, http://puddleboyrules.blogspot.com/ and 19 Yahoo groups.

..... pb

Great shots there Puddleboy. I love those discarded "antiques". The glassware and the extra-wide stripe on the whitewall are priceless.
You live pretty close by too. If you want to discuss Byberry, email me at radical_ed@yahoo.com. I was born in the 60's so you won't be chatting with a kid.

Oh, I'm sure there's tons of stuff buried around these buildings. Maybe even a body or two (yipes!)

The woods I'm digging in has sentimental value, as I've spent a good chunk of my life back there. The dump seems to have started in the 30's and followed the banks of the stream until it was out to the street. That's when it was closed. In July '63. I can't dig in the 'newer section' as there's homes there now, but the older (30's, 40's) is still available. That's where I do most of my digging.

Radical Ed, you should email me at uhh.. xsadxandxlonleyx@yahoo.com I think that's mines..Not sure tho

Hey Motts, you should come here again before the shit actually hits the fan.

can anyone visit

I visited here a couple times. It's so intriguing. I would like to go with someone who actually has been through here, isn't scared and knows stuff. I went with a group of guys and I had to lead the way! We were only in one of the patient wards main floor and a bldg marked as main floor refrigeration on the map we had, then we got chased out by security, not caught tho. E-mail me- bebetheqb@yahoo.com

Are you sure Smiley's a he?

Loved the tour, many thanks!

Keep thinking about that team Ed and Motts, I think itsa perfect idea.

good tour now you should go back get more pictures to add to this collection more up to date ones you know ?

YES.. that's right Motts. When are you going to make a return visit? You missed a whole lot of very interesting things...

Thank you, Motts, for the awesome tour. And thank you, Radikal Ed, for the "play by play". You both succeeded in making me feel as if I were actually there. =]

If you like this stuff, you can get more of it on Mott's fantastic FORUM.
I have a Byberry thread going with dozens of pics from all kinds of explorers.
Go here: http://www.opacity.us/forum/
and shoot to the "Photography" section.

heyy seriously u guys r crazi goin in there i live right across the street from byberry...my older sis went in there nd shit her pants cuz she saw alot of shit.....u guys r crazii as shyt u guys do really hav balls 2 go in there i wuld luv 2 go in there but i wuld DIE!!!! my friend rite next 2 me wants 2 go in there now...im in school rite now at computer class nd im lookin at pics of byberry!!! well im gonna go!!! hope u had fun~

your an inspiration to go to byberry and take picures.
i just went a couple days ago and seen a straight jacket..then a couple minutes later i seen a ghost of somekind...or maybe it was a reflection
i dont know but it threw fears at me

you guys are sick. i know this all seems like fun and games to you, but on saturday a good friend of mine, David Brown got seriously hurt working at byberry as a building inspector. A 1000 pound wall fell on him and he's lucky he wasn't killed. his legs are shattered and hes going to be in the hospital for months. because of this building his life is changed forever. i guess you guys will never learn ? wasn't it enought that someone got killed there last year? your pathetic.

Is it me or are only building inspectors being hurt/killed in Byberry? I think Byberry hates building inspectors. In other words, if you try to fuck with Byberry, Byberry will fuck with you!... lol

Hey *Angry*. I was there the next day and saw the wall that injured Dave. I would like to know who told him it was safe in the first place and why THAT particular wall was even damaged by the demo crew? It was nowhere near the row of "C"s you demolished last week but it was quite close to the courtyard where you're taking the asbestos down through the boiler room and illegally dumping it in the steam tunnel under Southampton Road. Since that tunnel is owned by the city of Philadelphia and floods out every rain storm, eventually draining dry and sweeping the asbestos into the environment, don't you think you have bigger fish to fry than berating a bunch of curiosity seekers on a public forum?
I see you've been demoing buildings you never abated as well, like the Furey Ellis auditorium and the rear of N-10. Do you think the neighbors like breathing the poison air your selfish negligence has created?
We all know Byberry's going down.
Do you think you can do it right?
For everyone's sake?

You've got a good point ed. I noticed that the demo crew is doing a HORRIBLE job of abatement when i was there last. And you're right. They have to be dumping it in that steam tunnel. I even found some random asbestos peices in the rubble of a few of the c's. They aren't doing a good job at all. FUCK THE DEMO CREW. Im sure one of you loosers (abatement crew) saw that while you ripped out asbestos. Thanks to me....

Not too shabby! I grew up in that area and got extra credits in pychology going to Byberry to teach the deaf people sign language. Back in the early times deaf people were commited because their problems were not understod. It was scary back then too.

R.E....i think you're on to something about the proximity of the demo'd hallway and the boiler room/dumping area.i think what the city inspectors need to do,is to look into the "c" bldgs that haven't been abated yet and see about the asbestos in those bldgs,(i.e.7-8-9).i'll bet their using the tunnells to get into the bldgs that they're not supposed to be in yet,and removing the asbestos ahead of time and illegally funnelling it elsewhere on site!!!!

First of all, out of C's 7, 8, and 9, only C-7 is open to the hobbit tunnels. The entrances to C's 8 and 9 are probably still bricked off, unless they broke them open. Old administration and old maintenance are also bricked off from that particular tunnel. The only other building still standing that is open to that hobbit tunnel is C-14, the infirmary. however, I haven't been to the 'Berry in almost two months, so quite a bit could've changed.

to:radical ed....geppert is being paid over 12 million to be the general contractor on site.everyone else is a sub-contractor to them.DELTA removal is being paid 4 million to do the asbestos.not a bad price when they are using virtually no materials at all,,,just a rip and run operation.and you are sooo right about furry ellis...........

it was MARY PAT GEPPERT who confronted you about the sign.she's a wack-job who married old man geppert a few years back after having an affair with the old man...she's like 30 years younger than him.

That's just as desturbing as the asbestos they're STILL DUMPING...

you are absolutely correct on that.And why has the radical ed gone so soft on this?he was all over them,,,and now he acts like he is on their payroll.

you talk a good game but you have no proof to back your baseless alligations.

To all who call themselves Byberrians...
Let not one forget that when breaking into active containment areas where live abatement is going on, this is breaking federal laws and regulations. While these laws regulate and govern the asbestos removal industry, they also apply to the everyday person(tresspasser) that breaches those containments. When one considers reigning in the EPA and OSHA, one must also question themselves as to if they are blameless. When one thinks that a violation is being committed, it is wise to also do some further research and make sure they are not also violating federal laws.
Please, do not forget the beloved Poquessing and how Byberrians traipse through its waters covered in asbestos. It's rather amusing that all who act as if they care and are protecting us neighbors are the ones who have been openly exposing us to these hazards for years.
Let's us also not forget the used tyvek suits or used respirators which Byberrians have been leaving deposited along Carter Road for years, for surrounding neighbors to pick up. Check out some regulations in regards to these items and their proper disposal.

[edited personal accusations; let's keep it somewhat on topic -Admin ]

That's funny stuff "concerned resident".
I don't cross the Poquessing Creek by wading through it, I walk across the Roosevelt Blvd.
I don't leave suits or respirators on neighbor's lawns, I don't trespass on residential land nor litter. I've never brought a tool to Byberry and never smashed anything there. When I go home, my hands are still clean.
I've never walked on Carter Road, nor parked there or used it to gain entrance to Byberry.
How does someone walking through an enclosed building expose the neighbors to hazarous waste? One would surmise that demolition and heavy equipment bringing down improperly-abated hundred-year-old buildings would put more waste into the environment than a pair of Timberland hikers do.
You really are reaching for a reason to blame the problem on folks visiting the buildings, when you should focus on the slip-shod operations going on across the street. The Vietnamese Tyrant running the demo is cutting corners and causing problems by doing that, while houses all around Londontown are going up for sale.
The folks aren't moving due to curiosity-seekers walking through the property, it's due to the quality of life being compromised by money-grubbing practices and their pollution of the environment.
Why don't you worry more about the unskilled laborers working there as well? I'm sure you're aware that some, if not most, are illegal immigrants from South America and the fines from illegal and improper activities so far equal close to a million dollars.
You're worried about me walking around in a condemned building and all of this is going on in front of your own eyes.
Maybe you should do some research yourself, put aside your prejudice for the kids, and look at the big picture.
You'll see it's not us, but the entire operation that's compromising your health and well-being.

Why would anyone, let alone Westrum, even begin to listen to the fallacies you spew anymore? Every allegation you have made of wrongful misdoings at Byberry have all turned out to be falsehoods and complete distortions of the facts. You're reminiscent of the story of the boy who cried wolf one too many times. It's a shame that in reality, you are only a legend in your own mind. [admin edit: please keep personal remarks off the site, otherwise your IP will be banned ]

You've got to be kidding me Edwardo. The person you "cleverly" hinted at may not be a Legend (or to I'm sure he is) but get over it. You may not agree with the fact that many many people frequented Byberry for their fun and entertainment, but they did. And all involved are sorry to see it be demolished, they have spent a life time enjoying the buildings and grounds. All they care about now is that if it has to go that it is taken care of in a safe method to protect the community in which they live. if something meant as much to you as this place does to so many who visited it regularly like a home away from home you may not be so quick to slander someone who only cares about the envirement of the community at this point.

Do people forget that we are here to enjoy Opacity and the company of each other??? It bugs that people come here with the sole intention of shit stirring. Edwardo and Scion...be thankful you have such people looking out for your neighbourhoods. I for one can relate to becoming so attached to somewhere that it near on breaks your heart to see it go, and like Kadee said, Rad Ed isn't doing anything wrong in caring about Byberry or the way it is demolished! The guy IS legend because of the way he cares.

I am probably gonna get told off for this but hey!

We all are here to enjoy opacity, and do enjoy the photos posted. But why be thankful? Be thankful for people who create needless havoc based on their own savior complex? Those screaming the loudest about their precious Byberry are the same people who have been destroying it over the years. Their tags/graffiti litter the walls. They are the ones who have set numerous fires. Worrying about the way it's being demolished, how about the way it's planned on being built on. Hearts being broken over the place being taken down? Surely you must jest. What about the surviving family members of patients who were tortured in Byberry? Where's the peace of mind for them at the end of the day in seeing this place truely meeting its demise.

Okay another flamming comment with the "Savior complex" You obviously have a personal issue here, so please do everyone a favor and keep it out of the public eye on this comments page. Think what you want, I'll think differetly and keep your personal remarks about individuals to yourself and just look at the photos.

Okay... maybe I missed something but I fail to see how some of the most recent comments have anything to do with Mott's picture of a spray-painted smiley face on a window. If you have personal issues that you would like to discuss please use the forum - and follow the rules there. Otherwise:

Comments pertaining to real location names, methods of entering the property, promotions or advertisements, off-topic discussion and general flaming, as well as those submitted under various aliases are subject to immediate deletion and your ip address being banned from this website. By submitting your comment you agree to these terms. Visit the forum for off-topic and general discussion.

Memories and stories from past employees, visitors or patients are gratefully welcomed, they help keep these places alive!

what side to pick... what side to pick...

Asbestos, if stable, is quite safe. Disturbed, and in particular crumbling asbestos is the dangerous stuff you don't want to play with. From what I read, the AntiCuriositySeekers are blaming the CSs for disturbing the stuff in the first place, the Curiosity Seekers are saying the damage they've caused is insignificant compared to the power of The Force. You're pushing shit uphill if you're trying to blame collapsed water sodden ceiling tiles on a CS, sure they've probably done a lot of damage and helped expediate the death of the building, but an decrepid building with asbestos is going to give you grief someday. As for the illegal handling and cost cutting, get factual information you can back up, wild allegations only discredit your cause when they cant be substantiated.

Hopefully those burning asbestos aren't dumb enough to stick around watching the bonfire, if they did, they're lives after 40 aren't going to be pleasant for them.

*looks at the smile* Have A Nice Day!

>ignoring all of the melee above<

What a whimsical photo!

"There is no conversation more boring than the one where everybody agrees."
-Michel de Montaigne

"Those who profess to favor freedom and yet depreciate agitation are men who want rain without thunder and lightning. "
-Frederick Douglass

"Your neighbor's vision is as true for him as your own vision is true for you."
-Miguel de Unamuno

I don't see anything wrong with backing up someone I believe to be a fair kinda bloke getting shit for no reason but I've been told so I'd better keep it shut ay!

asbestos doesn't burn,,,that's why it's used as fire-proofing.
asbestos is harmless when it's wet,,,we all are upset that the abatement contractor on site has yet to use any water at all....we know this because we watched and video taped it for the EPA in the auditorium.

i'm interested in seeing how the locals react when they find out all the asbestos coated concrete is being burried on site.has anyone monitored this activity?

Speaking of Smiley, when I was a teenager I worked at nearby Neshaminy Mall. There was a guy who'd allegedly been an inmate who frequently wandered around in the mall with a ski cap and a headphone radio. If you caught eye contact, he'd give you a big goofy smile and a slow wave and go back to looking through the trashcans in the middle of the mall. We all called him Smiley. It was sad.

that place aint scary at all i have been there so many times

i worked in the boiler room from 1972 until closing....i may have some answers if anyone is interested

what makes me smile,,,is any pictures of the porceline doll,,,she's an incredible talent and just looking at her,expecially with the contrast of byberry,,,wow!!!!i could look at her all day.

who's smiling now?

He has a strange smile on his face like he knows "something" that you don't know and that "something" is right behind you so do not turn around.........JUST RUN LIKE YOU HAVE NEVER RUN BEFORE IN YOUR LIFE !!!!!

Signed: An American Soldier stationed in Germany.

'ello there, lovelies =D

nice smilie in the window, there.

i'm doing fine. just great, actually...

got a lovely lady now, i'm not broke anymore...i've really found my place in the world.

didn't expect that one, did you?

thought i'd die a gruesome death and get cast into the fiery depths of hell, huh?

well actually, i'm doing fine.

no problems whatsoever.

just thought i'd drop by and comment something, let you all know everything's fine, no need for yelling or anything...

i miss all of you and wish that i hadn't said things the way i did.

if i could have said things differently, i wouldn't have gotten myself banned.

it's my fault i got banned, and i recommended this website to marie.

i apologize for my actions.

i'm sorry, everyone.

With Love,

SJ

let u know i am deaf lady and I've been heard about byberry hosptail alots of time... I never have been go in and look around so that was how i heard alots of scary stories from rumor.. i wasn't sure if it is true or not.. Umm...I 'm askin you a question ..uh umm it s kinda of stuipd question or something... Is it true alots of people got killed in there ??

That's not a smiley face, it's the ghost of byberry!

have they done anything with property yet or did the build crap?

Is that smiley face looking in or out?!!!! Thanks for another awesome tour : )

Nice not see a boarded or a broken window.

Of all the sets I think I enjoyed this one the most so far.

Words like incredable and fantastic come to mind but don't really do justice to the magic you work with your camera.

Sincere thanks Motts.

i used to live right by it i would walk by with my freinds and be so freaked out now that im older i wish it was still around so i could go in and see it for myself, youre pix are amazing

Great pics! I'd never heard of Byberry b4 this morning. The stories are interesting. I would luv to see pics of anything paranormal that may be there. Email me at jsharp23@yahoo.com if u have any.

wish i had seen it

I find myself coming to your blog more and more often to the point where my visits are almost daily now!

You certainly deserve a round of applause for your post and more specifically, your blog in general. Very high quality material

Coming back through, re-reading everything and looking at all the pictures that have been added and the ones that were already here when I found the site probably almost 7 years back...

Back then, I lived in East TN, north of Knoxville, and the only abandoned asylum I'd been remotely close to was over in Asheville, NC. It's gone now, I think. I have a few pictures of the exterior, but the trip my then-friend and I took that day was "We're bored, let's go do something outside." So, no flashlights and no way in the old place. Went back a few months later, found a fence around the building (not locked) got closer, more pictures.

Then I moved up to Bucks Co over 5 years ago. And I never realized, until well after being up here, that Byberry was so close. Sure I's cross Byberry Rd. when I too my fiance to his allergist, but never out two and two together. I remember my fiance's mother (who grew up in Philly) saying how her family used to scare her and her sister into behaving, threatening to leave them at Byberry if they didn't behave, giving them exaggerated or possibly completely false stories to scare them.

Really sad to see these buildings rot and eventually be knocked down, and all the drama from the abatement never being properly done. My old elementary school was purchased by a hospital for storage of medical equipment and possibly records after it closed. Then that hospital closed. I don't know what happened to it since the hospital was closed. But it makes me wonder. So many of the things I see in these pictures reminds me. The old wall tiles, the soap dispensers (that never worked, and sorry I had to bring it up, it's true though), and even seeing windows like this, with the spray-painted smiley. They all remind me of that school, not necessarily "happy" memories, but memories none the less.

So strange. (sorry for tl;dr!)

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