The Johnson County Poor Farm is a window into nineteenth century definitions and policy regarding social problems, both perceived and real. The need to care for the impoverished and people with mental illness was established in the United States in the 1820’s as a duty of the state and local governments. This duty was recognized early in Johnson County history, with the County choosing, first, to contract care, usually from local physicians. But by 1855, Johnson County supervisors decided to procure 160 acres on the western edge of Iowa City (see map above) – today’s 4811 Melrose Avenue – for a “poor farm” to provide systematic care at a low cost.
As methods of social relief changed, so did public opinion. Poor farms were increasingly viewed as inhumane and outdated, and public thought turned toward newer institutions designed to provide for people on an individual level – nursing homes, mental health facilities and schools for deaf and blind students. Many former poor farms around the country were converted into nursing homes, community centers, and hospitals, yet Johnson County ran and operated its farm under the “poor farm” model until 1988! Come learn more about this sad era in Iowa City history.
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At some point, our University School class visited the poor farm; very depressing.
It is, indeed – David