History of the Poorhouse

Join us at the museum on Sunday, July 6, at 2pm to learn more about the history of the Van Buren County Poorhouse (what our museum building started its life as in 1884). Local historian and board member Patience DeRoo will discuss what a poorhouse is but will also delve into the details of our specific county poorhouse. Learn who the keepers and matrons were, what the farm was like and how it ran, meet a few of the interesting residents who spent part of their lives here, and find out about some significant events that took place here. You’re bound to discover something you never knew. We can’t wait to see you, so mark your calendars now so you don’t miss out!