Table of Contents

Historical Note

Scope and Content Note

Information for Researchers

Administrative Information

Collection Inventory

Subject Headings

Inventory of the New Bedford Child and Family Services Collection

In the New Bedford Whaling Museum Research Library

Historical Note

In November 15, 1842, a society was organized in order to establish a home for children in need. Officers were elected and a house rented at Water St. and Point Rd. (later Cove Rd.) By March 3, 1843 a charter was granted by the Massachusetts Legislature to incorporate the New Bedford Orphan’s Home for the purpose of relieving, educating and an improving the condition of destitute children.

The home was closed in 1910 and the children were placed in foster care. The name was changed to the New Bedford Children’s Aid Society in 1911.

The Charity Organization Society of New Bedford was founded in 1894. Its purpose was to insure the harmonious action of the different charities of New Bedford in order to “raise the needy above the need of relief, prevent begging and cease pauperism; to encourage thrift, self-dependence and to prevent children from growing up paupers”. An alcohol education committee was formed within the Society. Its purpose was to: “set forth to the public the facts in the case against alcohol, the effect of alcohol on the human system, and the consequent lessening of efficiency”. By the 1900’s, the Charity Organization, the Children’s Aid Society and the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children were working together in the interests of children.

In 1920 the Charity Organization Society changed its name to New Bedford Family Welfare Society. In 1945 the New Bedford Family Welfare Society and the New Bedford Children’s Aid Society merged but remained financially separate until 1947. In 1947 the New Bedford Family Welfare Society relinquished funds to the New Bedford Children’s Aid Society which later changed their name to New Bedford Child and Family Services.

For a broader perspective of the social and economic conditions affecting families and children in the years 1839 to 1949 see: Caring for New Bedford Children 1839-1949 by Mary Jean Blasdale.

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Scope and Content Note

The New Bedford Orphan’s Home (1843-1910), the Charity Organization Society (1894-1920), the New Bedford children’s Aid Society (1910-1945) and the New Bedford Family Welfare Society (1921-1945) eventually merged and became the New Bedford Child and Family Welfare Service. (1948- )

This collection of records from these five charitable societies reflects, in part, the larger context of the social conditions in city of New Bedford during the latter half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century. The administrative and financial records and collected materials reflect the needs of the families and children suffering from poverty and neglect. They also tell the story of numerous women and men who worked diligently to provide for the needy.

For a comprehensive history of the social services for children and families in New Bedford, consult Caring for New Bedford’s Children, 1839-1949 by Mary Jean Blasdale.

Arrangement of Collection

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Information for Researchers

Access to Collections

Because of the sensitivity of the information in this collection, access to the case records and any materials which reveal personal names and information, restrictions will be lifted 101 years before today's date (i.e. 2016 - 1915 and before). Consult librarian for an appointment.

Preferred Citation

New Bedford Whaling Museum Research Library Mss 149, [sub-group, series, sub-series, folder/volume as appropriate], [item]

Copyright Notice

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Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a reproduction if the document does not infringe the privacy rights of an individual, group, or corporation. These specified conditions of authorized use include:

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Permission to publish, exhibit, perform, reproduce, prepare derivative works from, sell, or otherwise distribute the item must be obtained separately in writing from the holder of the original copyright (or if the creator is dead, from his/her heirs) as well as from any individual(s), groups, or corporations whose name, image, recorded words, or private information (e.g. employment information) may be reproduced in the source material. The holder of the original copyright is not necessarily the New Bedford Whaling Museum. The New Bedford Whaling Museum is not legally liable for copyright, privacy, or publicity infringement when materials are wrongfully used after being provided to researchers for "fair use."

This institution reserves the right to refuse to accept a copying order if fulfillment of the order is judged in violation of copyright or federal or state privacy law. This institution also places restrictions on the use of cameras, photocopiers, and scanners in the research room.

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Administrative Information

Provenance

Accession B85-10

Processing Information

Processed by: Jalien Hollister and Nancy Thornton, 2015-2016

Encoded by: Kristi Mukk, 24 November 2020

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Collection Inventory

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Subject Headings

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