The Poorhouse

The book delves into the historical context of poorhouses, institutions that existed for over three centuries in America, often overlooked in modern discussions. It examines the experiences of both residents and staff in New England, highlighting how these facilities have evolved into contemporary equivalents like homeless shelters and prisons. By drawing connections between past and present, the narrative sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by the impoverished, often confined within the same structures that once housed the poor.