Rhode Island State Home and School records (MSS-0039)

Biographical/Historical Note

Established in 1884, the State Home and School for Children was one of America’s first post-Civil Var public orphanages and the first state home for dependent, neglected, delinquent, and disabled children in Rhode Island. It consisted of dormitories for boys and girls, a hospital, school, chapel, farm, greenhouses, icehouse, and cemetery that were added over the years. Many efforts have been undertaken to preserve the grounds, specifically the Yellow Cottage, one of the original dormitories and the last remaining building of the Home. In 1948, the State Home was renamed the O’Rourke Children’s Center. Over its 100-year history, the State Home became several different institutions with its mission and role constantly changing. In 1977, the Rhode Island legislature called for the Home’s closure due to mistreatment. Following its closure in May of 1979, its functions were taken over by the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) in 1980. Currently, Rhode Island College’s east campus includes the former grounds of the State Home/Children’s Center.