Poorhouses of Massachusetts : A Cultural and Architectural History

English

ISBN: 0786466448

EAN: 9780786466443

Category: Social Science / Sociology / General/Travel / Museums, Tours, Points Of Interest/Political Science / Public Policy / Social Policy/Political Science / Public Policy / Social Services & Welfare/Social Science / Poverty & Homelessness/Architecture / Regional/History / United States / State & Local / New England (Ct, Ma, Me, Nh, Ri, Vt)/

Publisher: McFarland & Company, Incorporated Publishers

Release Date: 07/31/2012

Synopsis: Ever since the English settled in America, extreme poverty and the inability of individuals to support themselves and their families have been persistent problems. In the early nineteenth century, many communities established almshouses, or poorhouses, in a valiant but ultimately failed attempt to assist the destitute, including the sick, elderly, unemployed, mentally ill and orphaned, as well as unwed mothers, petty criminals and alcoholics. This work details the rise and decline of poorhouses in Massachusetts, painting a portrait of life inside these institutions and revealing a history of constant political and social turmoil over issues that dominate the conversation about welfare recipients even today. The first study to address the role of architecture in shaping as well as reflecting the treatment of paupers, it also provides photographs and histories of dozens of former poorhouses across the state, many of which still stand.

Poorhouses of Massachusetts : A Cultural and Architectural History

Illustrated: Yes

Format: Paperback

Pages: 247