Greene County Almshouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Greene County Almshouse
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 Location in Illinois
Location in the United States
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| Location | Greene County, Illinois |
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| Nearest city | Carrollton |
| Area | 5 acres (2.0 ha) |
| Built | 1907 |
| Architectural style | Italianate |
| NRHP reference No. | 91000568 |
| Added to NRHP | May 17, 1991 |
The Greene County Almshouse is a special historic building located in Greene County, Illinois. It sits along a country road northeast of the city of Carrollton. This building was once a "poorhouse," a place where people who needed help could live and find support.
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What Was an Almshouse?
An almshouse was a place built to help people who were poor or couldn't take care of themselves. In the past, before modern welfare programs, each county in Illinois was asked to build its own almshouse. This idea came from a state law passed in 1839.
Helping Those in Need
Before almshouses, people who needed help often worked on farms in exchange for food and a place to stay. This was called "outdoor relief." The new almshouse system aimed to give people shelter and basic needs. Often, residents would work on the almshouse property, usually on a farm. By 1903, almost all counties in Illinois had an almshouse or a "poor farm."
History of the Greene County Almshouse
Greene County started its first poor farm in 1842. But as the county grew, they needed a bigger place. So, in 1869, they decided to build the almshouse you see today. It was finished in 1870.
Life at the Almshouse
The new almshouse could house about thirty people at a time. The people who lived there included those who were poor, people without homes, and individuals with physical or mental disabilities. Orphans and the elderly also found a home there.
Residents at the almshouse helped out by working on the property. They grew grains and vegetables. They also raised livestock like cows or pigs. Later on, they even planted fruit orchards. The State Board of Public Charities, which checked on these places, said that the Greene County Almshouse had "excellent" living conditions. This was good news, as not all poorhouses in the state were as well-kept.
A Changing Purpose
Over time, the role of the almshouse began to change. In the 1900s, it slowly became more of a home for older people. By 1910, most of the people living there were over 60 years old. By 1928, about 90% of the residents were seniors.
New Focus for the Almshouse
Because of this change, the almshouse shifted its main goal. It started focusing more on caring for its older residents. In 1932, Illinois created a new statewide welfare program. This new program meant that county almshouses were no longer as necessary.
A Historic Landmark
The Greene County Almshouse is an important part of history. It was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 17, 1991. This listing helps protect the building and recognizes its importance in the story of how communities cared for those in need.
