In the centuries before programs like Social Security, Medicaid, and SNAP, there were few options for those who, for various reasons, found themselves in a state of poverty.
Many of these individuals turned (or were taken to) their local poorhouse for assistance. The term “poorhouse,” also known as an “almshouse,” brings with it a multitude of emotions. For some, the idea of ending up here could be terrifying or shameful, while others saw it as a possible place of refuge.
During the course of almost a century, thousands of people would end up walking through the doors of Poughkeepsie‘s almshouse, located on Maple Street. Their names, stories, and indeed their very existences, have been all but forgotten.
The Poughkeepsie Public Library’s Historian Shannon Butler will present an in-depth look at the history of the Poughkeepsie Almshouse and its people on Wednesday, May 1 at 6 pm, at the Family Partnership Center in Poughkeepsie.
The discussion will be held in the Lateef Islam Auditorium, located on the first floor of the Family Partnership Center at 29 North Hamilton Street.
The Poughkeepsie Public Library has been serving the community since 1874. For more information, visit their website at poklib.org or email the Local History Room at sbutler@poklib.org.
Photo: The Poughkeepsie Almshouse at 20 Maple St (today assisted living apartments).
