Near Goshen in Elkhart County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
The County Farm
The Elkhart County Farm
The Elkhart County Farm was built in 1886. The facility included the home, two barns, a hog lot, corncrib, implement storage buildings, pastures and agricultural fields. Residents helped with the farm, livestock and garden operations. In return, those living at the home received room, board, medical attention and recreation programs. The home closed in 1977 and was torn down in 1981. A cemetery with unmarked graves is all that remains of the County Farm.
Helping Others Less Fortunate
The County Farm System began in the mid-1800s during the Industrial Revolution. The homes were a safety net for those who had nowhere else to turn. In addition to the poor, the County Farm took in the mentally ill, elderly and orphans.
The idea that it is the responsibility of the government to care for the less fortunate was expressed by the County Farm Program. Today, mental institutions, orphanages, nursing homes and social programs provide the services formerly provided by County Farms.
(Lower Left Photo Caption)
"Some enjoy the quietness of fishing along the Elkhart River just behind the County Home."
Annual Report, Elkhart County Home
(Upper Right Photo Caption)
"Two men help with chores caring for the livestock under supervision of the administrative assistant. During the summer others have helped us with such special events as making hay or harvesting corn."
Annual Report, Elkhart county Home
Erected by Elkhart County Parks.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Charity & Public Work. A significant historical year for this entry is 1886.
Location. 41° 37.818′ N, 85° 54.154′ W. Marker is near Goshen, Indiana, in Elkhart County. Marker can be reached from County Road 45. Marker is located near the Fishermans Camp Shelter in Ox Bow County Park; an entrance fee may be required. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 23427 County Road 45, Goshen IN 46528, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 5 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Elkhart County Home Cemetery (approx. 0.3 miles away); Indiana Territory Line (approx. 1.1 miles away); A. E. Kunderd Gladiolus Farm (approx. 1.9 miles away); St. John's Lutheran Church (approx. 3˝ miles away); Fort Wayne Street Bridge (approx. 3.8 miles away); Oakridge Cemetery (approx. 4.1 miles away); West Goshen Cemetery (approx. 4.4 miles away); Lou Criger (approx. 4˝ miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Goshen.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 4, 2021. It was originally submitted on May 7, 2014, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas. This page has been viewed 1,616 times since then and 96 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. submitted on May 7, 2014, by Duane Hall of Abilene, Texas.