He designed plans for the construction of mental hospitals which were adopted throughout the United States in the second half of the nineteenth century.
In 1851, Curwen became superintendent and remained in the post until 1881 when he moved to Warren, Pennsylvania to open an asylum.
This method fostered pleasant surroundings with minimal use of restraints, occupation and recreation therapies, and medication only as needed.
In 1851, he published A Manual for Attendants in Hospitals for the Insane which he set forth the directions for the treatment of patients plus descriptions of various types of hydrotherapy and special diets.
As secretary of the AMSAII, Curwen attended the annual meetings, participated in discussions and presented papers.
He maintained the Association’s archives and the Proceedings of each annual meeting was summarized and published in the American Journal of Insanity.
History of the Association of Medical Superintendents of American Institutions for the Insane from 1844 to 1874 inclusive … [Harrisburg, PA], 1875.
History ... from 1844-1884 inclusive, with a list of the different hospitals for the insane, and the names and dates of appointment and resignation of the medical superintendents.