1850-1960s

When Maryland's legislature approved the formation of Carroll County in 1837, it required the residents to build a courthouse, jail, register's office, clerk's office and a poorhouse.

In 1852, the County Commissioners purchased 307 acres on the outskirts of Westminster at a cost of $17,826 and constructed a poorhouse, also called the "Almshouse", and the first residents moved in on May 23, 1853.

The Almshouse was essential to the survival of those poor and down on their luck. It housed county residents, hobos and tramps who could count on getting a meal and temporary lodging. Occasionally, criminals and the insane were also in residence. Those able to do farm work helped raise food for themselves.

A salaried steward, who oversaw the operation and his family, lived on the second floor of the Almshouse, women residents lived on the third floor and there was a men's dormitory as well.

This area called Potters Field, a common name of a public burial ground for poor or unidentified people, served as the cemetery for the Almshouse, which served the indigent until June 30, 1965 when it closed it's doors forever. The official opening of the Carroll County Farm Museum took place on August 13, 1966.

Sorry, but we don't have a picture of this historical marker yet. If you have a picture, please share it with us. It's simple to do. 1) Become a member. 2) Adopt this historical marker listing. 3) Upload the picture.

Show me all markers in:  Westminster, MD  |  Carroll County  |  21157  |  Maryland  |  United States of America

Landon C. Burns
In Memory of All American Veterans, a War Memorial
World War II Veterans Memorial, a War Memorial
Carroll County World War I and World War II Memorial, a War Memorial
Carroll County Almshouse and Farm
Engagement at Westminster
Molleville Farm Post No. 467, V.F.W., a War Memorial
Mulberry
Corbit's Charge
Westminster MD Town Survey

• GPX
• KML
• LOC

Have you seen this marker? If so, check in and tell us about it.