Knox County Poor Farm
The surrounding 132 acres of land served as the Knox County Poor
Farm (aka Knox County Infirmary and County Home) from 1842 to
1955. The farm was nearly self-sustaining. Able residents grew
their own food, raised livestock, and did various chores as partial
compensation for their care. In 1874, a fire in the original wood
farmhouse resulted in one death. Public outrage and concerns for
resident's safety compelled the county commissioners to build a new
"fireproof" poorhouse. The four-story brick building was constructed
from 1875-1877. It is believed to be the last building designed by
architect William Tinsley, utilizing a version of the Kirkbride Plan. This
plan, conceived by Dr. Thomas Story Kirkbride, improved the layout
of institutions and infirmaries for the well-being of their charges.
Knox County Infirmary
Situated across the street, the infirmary had 139
rooms, each with a scenic view, and including a
small chapel. The facility provided a home-like
atmosphere for people who lived there. The
institution moved seven miles north in 1955 when the county
could no longer maintain the facility. The Mount Vernon Bible
College occupied the property from 1957 to 1988. On June 26,
2015, a fire destroyed the "fire-proof" Knox County Infirmary.
(picture)
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