Vermont's Poor Farms
As early as 1797, Vermont put the responsibility for taking care of its poor, ill, and elderly residents on its towns, many of which set up Poor Farms, where they would be directed to work until their debts were paid. This antiquated system lasted until 1968, when the Legislature repealed the original laws and the last farm (located in Sheldon) shut down.
- Read "Remember the Poor" in Vermont History
- Read "Caring for the Poor: Thetford and the Baker Family, 1792-1817" in Vermont History
- Read about Poor Farms in VT Digger
- Read "Long ago, Vt. took care of indigent on local poor farms" in USA Today
- Visit the Sheldon Historical Society's page about Sheldon's poor farm
- Read "Local poor farm a 'Harbour' of refuge" in the Bennington Banner
- Listen to Brave Little State's episode about road names
This Place in History is produced in partnership by Local 22 & Local 44 (www.mychamplainvalley.com) and the Vermont Historical Society.
