Adam Oster from the Library of Michigan will talk about the early history of Michigan Poorhouses or “Poor Farms” and their attempts to care for the poor, elderly and destitute. The special presentation will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 27, at the Dorr Township Library.
It is widely thought that all but one county had either a poor farm or poor residence in the early 1900s. Nearly every Michigan county built such facilities, but few remain. Their social and cultural histories have almost disappeared as well.
Oster has done extensive research on Michigan’s poor farms and underlying legislation surrounding their establishment and management during the 1800s and early 1900s.
“This program does not require signup, but we would like an idea of numbers for this event,” said Library Director Jeff Babbitt. “If you are planning on coming or would like a reminder phone call day of please stop into the library or call 616-681-9678 to leave your name and number!”