MILLER COUNTY POOR FARM & PAUPERS & CEMETERY
Researched and submitted by Tresa Dickey Underwood.
More info to come as information is found or submitted.
If you have some information you would
like to share please e-mail at the email on the main page
Sources: Newspapers, Miller County Court records and misc. records.
What was a poor farm? It is like our modern day nursing homes along with social security. If someone was unable to take care of themselves, didn't have any money or nowhere to live or means the county would declare them paupers and then they would live at the poor farm. They were given a place to live, medical care and food and what they required. There is no shame in a poor house, just like there is no shame for a nursing home. This was how the county took care of the elderly with no family involved. The family could have only been able to take care of them selves. As you will noticed most of the people that lived at the poor farm were elderly and had several children. This was hard times, so it was hard to take care of the family. Some of them were widows. Some outlived their children. Just like in the nursing homes today. The county stepped in before it was declared that they had to by law. Before the farm was established, neighbors, kind and caring people helped take care of the one's that needed help and asked the county to reimburse them, as you will see from the information below. As you read below keep in mind not all that were declared paupers lived on the farm. Some of them just received assistance from the county. Some just stayed until arrangements could be made with their family. Like a train ticket to send them to their family.
After searching, maps, census, land records & misc sources & help from Phillip Liverett the area has been found where it was. The land has not been developed yet. This may not be the actual building but it is the area the farm was located.
Other Scenes
Across the street is this
Before the farm was established
Monday, March 4th??? 1875 Paupers
H. S. Johnson Esq. Presents petition of Mrs. C. J. Smith praying the court to make an order allowing her bill of nineteen dollars for the support of woman and child and the court after full consideration of said petition doth order that the sum of thirty dollars in said county be issued to said Mrs. C. J. Smith for the maintenance of said pauper on condition that said pauper be further taken care of by petition.
Tuesday March 16th 1875 Paupers
George Frazier, D. R. Turner, Rachel Burk, Mrs. Waldrip
Wed. April ?? 1875
Wife of S. J. Patterson 30.00Tuesday July 27, 1875
Nancy (Kee) (Hee)?, Charlotte Kelly, Dolly (H?)iney?
1/3/1876
In the matter of Paupers
O_ _______ it is ordered by the court that persons shall not be supported as paupers by Miller County until they shall have been declared adjudged as paupers in court which shall only be done by proper information by the persons themselves who claim such support or when the or upon the sworn statements of creditable and respectable citizens who are personally acquainted with the circumstance and conditions of such applicants, and all orders heretofore made declaring person paupers are here by worked and submitted. It is further ordered that a special secession of the court be held 1/31/1876 to consider this subject and pass upon the claims of such persons as ______ apply for County.
In the matter of the poor farm
It is ordered that James G. Johnson Esq., B. R. Attaway & B. B. Cradup are here by appointed Commissioners of the court and charged with the duty of inquiring into and taking in consideration of practicable of poor housing a farm by the county to be made a home and to for mite for such person as they be declared paupers, and to report to the county their news & suggestions. And to report to the court of findings or suggestions for housing 1/21/1886
1/31/1876
Declared Paupers
Judy
Shelton
Dolly
Henry
Delora
Batt
Becky Moon
Allowance for Paupers
It is ordered that George Lee receive 75.00 for support of
pauper Judy Shelton during the year ending Dec. 31, 1875.
It is ordered that Richard Smith receive 75.00 for the
support of pauper Delorios Batt during the year 1875.
It is ordered that James Richie receive 75.00 for the
support of pauper Becky Moon, year ending 12/31/1875.
It is ordered that Anderson Hunter receive 35.00 for
keeping pauper Dolly Henry
It is ordered that S. L. Higgs receive 75.00 for the support of Mrs. Drucilla Waldrip. (Lucillia Waldrup) Background info on this group: (1870 Simon L. Higgs age is 73 wife is Francis age 42, son George age 15, daughter Amanda age 13, daughter Ella age 8, son Price age 7. (In 1870 census Lafayette county Rondo Mrs. Drucilla Waldrip's is living in his household. She is a widow age 27 White in 1870 with Ida age 6 and Tammy age 4 yr old and she is listed as insane. Also listed in this household is Sarah Ward age 15 White. B???? Taylor age 7 Black.) (In 1880 Ida & Tammy show up in the household of Francis Higgs and relation ship is listed as granddaughters. Francis has one daughter Ella and a son Price. She was the wife of S. L. Higgs in 1870. She is living next door to son George in Cut off Township, Miller county Arkansas.
1/6/1876
Matter of Nancy Few
Mrs. Lightfoot
will receive 10 dollars per month for the support of Nancy Fee?Matter of Nancy
Fea. Also Johnson Esq (Attorney
appointed) will inquire into the matter of certain property said to belong to
Nancy Fea
1/31/1876
In the matter of paupers
Declared Paupers
D. or O C.. Turner and R. Burke
1/31/1876
In the matter of paupers
Declared paupers
Dolly Henry
2/01/1876
George Vanderbuilt Declared Pauper
4/??/1876
In the matter of paupers
Declared Pauper
Bertha Mathews
Fri. 7/7/1876
Betty Moore allowed the amount of 15.00 for support.
Thos. Orr was allowed to draw the same and spend it for her best
advantage.
Sat. 7/8/1876
Mrs. Elizabeth Kennedy was allowed 90.00 for the support of
Rachel Burk, from Jan 31- Jan 31 1876.
Tues. 7/11/1876
James A. Endsly was allowed 28.00 for the support of D. C
or O Turner from May 1st –June 30th.
Declared a Pauper
Octavious Stephens
July 1877 – Oct 1877 supported by _____ ______.
4/30/1878
John Allen was allowed 15.00 per month for the Support of Dolly Henry.
Charles Hill was allowed 15.00 per month for the support of Charlotte Henry. 1878
8/2/1881:
In the matter of grave yard for pauper purpose, Miller County Entered into contract with J. W. Markham for the purchase of two acres in section 18 township 15 South of Range 28 West. $75.00. (Land description looks like the same for Woodlawn.)
10/25/1881
Proposal to except bids for burying paupers.
They must turn in by 11/8/1881
Chas. Paupe Declared Pauper
11/21/1881
The Contract for burying paupers of miller county Arkansas and W. C. Rechkoff . For the period of 12 months. To Furnish coffins for the county of Miller ordered by Judge Thomas Orr or John A. Roberts as sheriff, for the one’s that die with in the city limits of Texarkana, Arkansas and Texas. The coffins are to be made of dressed lumber and of neat shape and structure and the graves to be of usual depth. County pays$11.00 for each internment. Order from the Judge Thomas Orr or John A. Robert.
1/5/1882
In the matter of Burying Paupers & persons on the land purchased by Miller County for a county graveyard. Numerous persons had been reported as being buried in the Potters Field with out knowledge of the court.
Judged
ordered that before any burial in the plot of ground known as the miller County
burial ground or Potters Field, they have to have a written order from the judge
or the sheriff stating that the person is a pauper.
Establishing the Poor Farm
Book C, Pg 120, Miller County Court Records
April 1884
County Poor House
_ _
Biedler a citizen of Texarkana Miller county Arkansas has property to
donate and deed to Miller county 50 Acres Lying and ______ in Section 22, Twenty
two in township 15 south of ridge 28 west in said county conditioned however
that the county shall establish a poor house and farm with suitable buildings.
It is therefore by the court ordered that C. C. Dorrian, ___ McLain, and C. E. Bramble, being the ones here by appointed to ______ and accept from H. W. Biedler
Henry Biedler & Amanda Biedler Photo's from the Wilbur Smith Research Library Files.
Henry W. Beidler & Wife To Deed Miller County
Henry & his wife had four children, Romance Markoe, Dawn, Ella and a son, Roy. Mrs. Amanda J. Biedler died in Texarkana, Ark. Aug 7, 1888. Mr. Beidler was also an inventor. He was known as Dr. J. J. Beidler. He is also known to have donated most of the land holdings in Texarkana to the city for public use. Mr. Beidler was the first mayor of Texarkana Arkansas term from 1880-1881. He was assainated in Texarkana, Ark., on Sat Dec. 8, 1888 at the Vine Street crossing of Broad Street. He was shot from behind and killed.
Whereas H W McLane, C. C. Dorrian, and Chas E. Bramble have been herefore appointed by the Miller County Court to make selection of a site and land for a county poor house or farm for said Miller County and whereas they have selected as such site and land the Nw!/4 of the N E. of Section Twenty two (22) in Township (15) Fifteen South and range (28) Twenty Eight West and Whereas I am willing to donate said land to said Miller County for said purpose Now therefore known all ___ by these present that I henry W. Beidler of the town of Texarkana in Miller County Arkansas for and consideration fo the premises and of one dollar to me cash in hand paid at and before the delivery of these present by said Miller County, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged have given granted bargained and sold and do hereby give grant bargains sell and convey unto said Miller County the said described track of parcil of land situated lying and being in said Miller County to wit: The NW of the NE of Sec (22) Twenty Two in Township (15) fifteen South and Range (28) Twenty Eight West. To have and to hold the ___ unto the said Miller County and its Sucessors forever, and I do convenant with said Miller County that i will warrant and forever and demand of all persons whatsoever. And I Amanda J. Beidler wife to the said Henry W. Beidler for the consideration aforsaid do hereby relinquish and quitctain unto the said Miller County all my right title claim or possible of dower into or out of the above described lands. Witnessed our hands the 25th day of June A. D. 1884 Henry W. Beidler, Amanda J. Beidler.
Notary info:
Then Witnessed my hand and seal as such notary Public this 30th day of June 1884 signed Thos Orr Notary Public Miller County Ark. Filed for Record Aug. 6th 1884 at ( Oclock and R. Kelly Clerk
July 1884
Declared Paupers
Dick Richards Patti Brook (Book)?
In the matter of awarding contracts for the erections of the building on Poor Farm.
C. C. Dorian, _____________, Charles E. Bramble appear.
2 building to be built. Approved
10/1884
Put before the court was that they would build two or three rough best substantial buildings, each to contain two rooms with shed room in the read of building, gallery in front. Stack chimney and such openings, size of everything left up to how much the county could afford. The 2 building to be built was Approved and bids were accepted in Nov 1884, 4 bids were submitted and they approved S. M. Santenos for the final sum of one thousand dollars.
Bids submitted:
H. P. Hudgins for erection of building 787.50
W. T. Bannon 730.00
J. S. Wilson 932.00
S. M. Satenie? 650.00
Aproved for S. M(U)? Satenos
Final Sum one thousand dollars.
Securities named:
Thos.
Orr
J. D.
Asenbroug
P. S.
Raucun
J. C.
Whiters
G. H. Sangsdale
10/??/1884
In the matter of bids to keep poor house.
Care and maintence of Paupers
Keeper and MaIntence of said county on the Poor Farm
belonging to the county and sitable on section 20 of Town ship 15 s. of Range 28
W.
The contractor and keeper of said Poor Farm and Paupers
will be required to ____ into bond
with approved security to furnish said paupers with sufficient good and substantial
food and clothing, and to treat said paupers kindly and humanly, and see that
they received medical attention when necessary and to take good _____ care __
_____ ______ in their care
and keeping belonging to the county and to turn the same over to the county as
its _________ at the
___________ of this contract, the natural wear and tear considering.
All bids to be turned in by noon 1/5/1885.
Signed by _ M. Henry Judge of miller county Arkansas.
In the matter of the Poor Farm Commissioner
Decree giving approval for Commissioner to purchase
furniture an other articles for the comfort and care of the paupers of the
county.
Tues. Nov 18, 1884 Newspaper
Miller county is to have a
poor house and a farm for the paupers.
First Keeper: 1885 A. S. Jones
Jan 4, 1886 J. M. Childs was the keeper.
Also in 1886 the court determined that any one convicted of a petty or minor crime were to be used as labor for the poor farm.
In the matter of Letting Out contract for Poor Farm of Miller County Contract awarded to J. M. Childs
Sum of 5 dollars for each person lawfully committed.
500 per month to use to maintain and care for paupers.
More info
Contract will cease and desist 12/31/1886
Special Dec 1888 First Days Proceeding
In the matter of giving notice to award contract for
keeping for poor farm and pauper for ensuing year and other purposes.
Publish notices, posters etc for the contract for keeping the poor farm and eminence of the paupers for the coming year. Notice for Bids.
1/7/1889
In the matter of the contract to keep the poor house
Sealed bids by: Thomas Hodge, J. M Adcock, J. R. Pitts
J. R. Pitts awarded contract for the year of 1889
700 month to maintain and care for Paupers
In the matter of contract for medical attention to paupers at Poor House
Awarded to J. O. Magee for the year of 1889 for 1.50 per
visit.
???
J. W. Heart, Mary M. Heart parents of Walter Heart motion
to proclaim paupers
In the matter of receipt J. R. Price to Thomas Hodge, Inventory of Poor House Approved
Jan 1890
In Motion of County for keeping poor house.
Bids J. P. Peters and Thomas Hodge. For 1890
Rejected and be given on the specified day of April 4, 1890
Jan 20, 1890
In the matter of contract for medical attention to the paupers confining in the poor house of county.
Bids
J. O. Magee & S. A. Simmons
Awarded to J. O. Magee for 1.00 per visit, for the year 1890
April 8, 1890
In the matter of Caring for keeping of the paupers at the poor Farm
Awarded to J. R. Pitts for the year 1890
Oct.
1890 There
was a report turned into the court. And it was reporting information about the
potters field, or paupers burial ground. It
stated:
1.
Deplorable Conditions
2.
Remains of several persons supposed to be paupers had been buried in the
cemetery.
3.
Large number of blacks had been buried in the cemetery
4.
The graves are so irrigular that it is impossible to tell which is the County
Paupers and which is the blacks
5. It appears that the blacks had information that they were
authorized to used said grounds as a public cemetery for the
burial of their families and friends.
6. Due to the premises and hardships involved we leave it up to
the court.
7. Suggest selling the said grounds to the blacks for 100.00
8. In the future all paupers to be buried on the poor farm.
(This was acquired from materials that was in possesions of Dr. Geraldine Johnson. It is believed to have been compiled by the Arabella Heights Home Demonstration Club in the late 1960"s.
9.
That the Keeper of said Poor farm shall be required to keep said burial place in
proper condition.
This
was approved and deed was to be drawn up and money went to treasure to find
another pauper burial ground. Which
I have not seen anything on purchase of another one at this time.
Looks like this is where the lines were drawn on the Woodlawn cemetery, and paupers were to buried at the poor farm, possible with the small section of Woodlawn that was left on the Woodlawn side.
Jan 1891
In the matter of Contract Poor farm Medical attention
Awarded S. A. Simmons 1.50 per visit for the year 1891
Jan 5, 1892
In the matter of contract poor farm
Awarded to Hines Eubanks 80.00 for sufficiency of good and wholesome foods and clothing for the year of 1892
1/5/1892
In the matter of Medical attention Poor Farm
Awarded to Dr. S. A. Simmons for the year 1892 for the
price and sum of 1.50 for both medicine and prescription.
Jan 1892
In the matter of Pauper Burying ground
It appearing to the court that the county is without a convenient
place for the burial of its paupers that owing to the distance and extra expense
pertaining thereto the county poor farm is not a suitable place for the burial
of indigent persons, and it further appearing to the court that the county has
on demand a pauper burying ground fund at 75.00 and that the same should be
enlisted in real state ____
to the city of Texarkana suitable for a burying ground substancualy
enclosed and that commissioner should be appointed to select and negotiate for
the purchase of thereof.
Court ordered J. M. Scott, J. V. Garrison, and C. M. Reeves appointed commissioners and to select and negotiate for the purpose of purchasing a suitable lot of ground for a pauper burying ground and report their proceedings in full at the next term of this court.
Nov 1, 1892
In the matter of Poor house contract
Opening the advertisement for the keeping of the paupers at the poor farm for 1893
12/28/1892 contract will be awarded for the year of 1893
12/28/1892
In the matter of the contract Poor farm
Awarded to Thomas Hodge for the year of 1893
12/28/1892
In the matter of continuing the awarding of medical attention at the poor farm.
Ordered that it be continued till the 1st day of Jan. 1893
1/16/1892
In the matter of attention Poor House
Awarded to Dr. W. C. Spearman for 1.45 per visit for the
year 1893
11/16/1893
In the matter of advertising for the poor house
Approved to advertise for bids for medical attention for
the poor house.
12/29/1893
In the matter of for Poor house
Awarded Thomas Hodge 900 per month for the year of 1894
To maintain and care, and provided medical attention for the paupers at the poor house.
Jan 6, 1896
In the matter of Thomas Hodge and Inventory of the Poor House
Invoice of Miller County Poor House
4 Iron Bedsteads
4 Jingle Mattress
5 Haorers stoves
1 cook stove complete
1 Wash Kettle
2 Water buckets
2 Wash Tubs
1 Grind stone
1 shovel
13 double blankets
10 bed sheets
1 one man saw
1 hand saw
Signed Thomas Hodge Keeper
Approved
July 9, 1897
Aug. 1897
Charles Anderson declared a Pauper and sent to Miller county Poor farm
In the matter of burying paupers
Awarded to E. A. Schiaker & Co. for the year of 1898 the amount of 9.75 for the burying of Paupers. Signed J. A. Hamilton Judge
12/18/1897
In the matter of the year 1898 for the poor farm
J. M. Long awarded for the year of 1898
March 11, 1898
In the matter of Mrs. Lee Edwards and L. B. Fulsom, Declared Paupers
Aug. 10, 1898 Published in Paper
Annual financial report Paupers & insane persons $841.30 paid by County.
12/18/1898
In the matter of contract let Poor Farm and burial of paupers
Bids For the Care
Thomas Hodge, J. M. Long and A. F. Maxey
Bids for burial of paupers
J. M. Long, and E. A. Schicker & co.
Awarded A. J. Maxey for care for the year 1899
For the care of each pauper for each month 700.00
For burying each dead pauper at farm 10.00
For medical attention for each sick Pauper at farm 1.00
Awarded E. A. Schicker & co. the sum of 9.70 for burying each pauper
1/??/1899 Texarkana Papers
Walker’s Relief Bill
This morning we received a letter from Representative J. A. Walker, in regard to his relief bill for Miss Jones—we heartily endorse his action in the premises. He says: “Miss Jones is an old lady living out about Rondo, I think—am not acquainted with her. The relief sought for her, and the circumstances leading to it, are these—in 1887 H. M. Beldler and wife deeded to Miller county a tract of land to be used as a poor farm; in 1888 the taxes on the land not being paid, it was returned as delinquent and sold for taxes, as the property of the St. L. I. M. & S. Ry. Co. By neglect of some one, it was allowed to remain on the tax books as the property of the said company. After two years it was certified to the land commissioner as forfeited land, and Miss Jones bought it from the state and paid therefore $50. When she located her land, it was the poor farm of Miller county. Of course she could not get possession of the land, and the state has her money. My bill is to appropriate the $50. to pay miss Jones her money back. I think she should have her money paid back to her, and I shall do all in my power to have it done.” We give the above explanation of the relief bill, which has been asked for by many of our readers, and, as stated above, we endorse our Representative’s action, if the facts set forth are true, and we believe it is.
4/17/1899
In the matter of Mrs. Wilson and three children, Declared Paupers
July 18, 1899
Paupers
Following applicants
J. M. Giles Recommended
Alfred Rounbunn J. O. Hardy Mrs. E. J. Childs J. W. Crabtree
Exception to drop Charlotte Stone who has married and moved
away
4/19/1899
Died There died at the poor farm near this city, Mrs. Wilson, an inmate from Sulphur Township. The lady was well thought of by those connected with the institution at which she died. A nice coffin was bought for her remains today and sent out to the farm. She will be buried at the Rondo Cemetery.
Wed. Aug. 2, 1899 Texarkana Papers
Found Dead In Bed
Yesterday a stranger arrived at the Bickham house in the
early part of the evening, and sat out in front of the house for an hour or two
before he made an effort to engage board or lodging. He had one leg off
just below the knee, and walked on what is known as a peg-leg. He was
cleanly dressed and looked as though he had not suffered from neglect. He
called the clerk to him before supper was announced and told him he was sick,
that the evening before he had taken a bath and he thought the pores of his skin
had been stopped up thereby, and that he thought if he had something to vomit
him, he would get better, He asked for a bed and was shown to a room. The
help about the house did not disturb him and this morning when the room was
visited to awaken him for breakfast, he was found dead. The reporter, in
company with Undertaker Reeves, viewed the body and found the subject spotted
about the chest, which indicated, we were told, congestion. The deceased
effects had not been touched and Undertaker Reeves said they must not be gone
into until the coroner could be gotten here from the country. A boy was
hired and sent out to summons this officer, and until he arrives, there is no
way of finding out who the individual is or his residence, as he did not
register before going to bed or tell his name to the proprietor. A later
investigation as to the identification of the dead man, is told us by assistant
undertaker East. It seems that the man came here with a lady, a
grandaughter of Mrs. Bickham from Shreveport. This lady, the name we did
ot get, run a boarding house there, and sold out. The deceased boarded
with her, and was indebted to her to the amount of $40, and when she left, he
told her he had friends here whom he could get money from and he would pay her
off if she would pay his fare here, which she did. The deceased was on the
pension roll, and drew $30. a month, and was not engaged at anything as a means
to make a livelihood. His remains were carted out to the poor farm and
buried on the order of Judge Hamilton.
Relief
for the poor did not just come from the county the churches also gave.
10/7/1899
Tennesee Baptist Church Miller County Arkansas
The
Church agreed to pay to Pastor and other Church paupers as follows
W. P.
Bankston 5.00
L. Winham
5.00
John Winham
Jr. 2.50
Dic Johnson
5.00
H. H. King
5.00
G R. Robinson
5.00
??
Buffington 5.00
?
Crow 5.00
S. L. Mills
5.00
J. Bolin
5.00
W. Bolin
5.00
A. J.
Vanderbuilt 5.00
Sister
Roberst 2.50
Sister Taylor
2.50
T. Hardy
2.50
G. Powel 2.50
I also have
seen instances where Red Cross helped and the Salvations army.
But if the pauper received anything from them they were not allowed to
collect from the county.
Also
while searching I noticed a lot of the local business sold
their goods to the poor farm and were reimbursed by the County.
This included drugs, clothing, wood, groceries and many other items.
Next door to A. J. Maxey (A. J. Maxey was awarded the keeper for 1899)
Jones, Richard White listed as head age 40 born 1860 in
Arkansas Father from Ala. And mother from Ark.
Mann, Thomas White age 60 born 1840
in Kentucky Pauper of Miller county Poor farm
Trigg, Susan Black Age 65 born 1835 in Ark. Shows she had
10 children with six still living. Shows she is a widow. Pauper of Miller County
Poor Farm
Junn, Linda Black She is a widow Age 41 born 1859 in Ark.
She had 11 Children can’t read if any are still living.
Pauper of Miller County Poor Farm.
While
looking at the paper there was an obit for Mrs. Rivers.
It was in 1/24/1906 newspaper. She
died on the 20th. It was titled Young Wife’s Cruel Fate.
The remains of Mrs. Rivers, the young woman who died. were buried at the
county’s expense, at 2 o’clock this afternoon at Woodlawn cemetery by
Undertaker East. Her grandmother
and grandfather reached here this morning from Hope in response to a telegram
announcing their granddaughter’s death, but they are extremely poor, and
unable to provide for her funeral expenses.
It is said they were compelled, even to borrow the small sum necessary to
pay their railroad fare from Hope to Texarkana.
Mrs. Rivers was only 17 years old at the time of her death.
Three years ago, when only 14, she was married to a young man named
Rivers. About six weeks ago she was
taken seriously ill, whereupon, it is said, her husband deserted her and left
the community for parts unknown, leaving her absolutely in want and without any
means whatever. Her mother Mrs.
Dobson, was with her, but she is also poor and could do little but neighbors
were kind and afforded all the relief they were able, from the time of the
husband’s desertion until the final end came.
A wife at fourteen; deserted, dead and in a pauper’s grave at
seventeen, a cruel fate. Yet
sometimes it is much sweeter to die than to live and perhaps this was a case of
that kind. Her young innocent life
went out under clouds of sorrow and despair; but there must be
“compensation” somewhere.
Laws
were passed in 1904 about all counties will have a poor farm. Miller county has already been doing it.
Feb
2 1900 A
line is added to the poor farm maintence contract for the keeper about burial of
the paupers. The keeper is in
charge of burying the paupers that die on the farm.
Oct
1904
In the matter of Paupers
Mrs. J. W. Cook and three children
decalred Paupers
B.
C. Pharr care of pauper J. W. Cook, 10.45
Jan 1905
In the matter of Pauper of Poor Farms Mrs. Cook and children:
Discharge
They
are now able to care for themselves. Order
keeper to discharge her Feb 15 1905
April 1905
Mrs Cook declared a pauper. No means to care for herself and small children.
Cully, Lewis J. White Age 40 Born in Arkansas Superintendent
Cully, Elmer White age 10 born in Ark. Son
Cully, Bennie White Age 8 born in Ark. Dau
Cully, Ella White Age 4 Born in Ark. Dau
Hardeman, Elijah, White Age 48 Widow born unknown inmate
Keon, Jack White age 60 Widow Born Unknown inmate
Cochran, James White age 70 Widow Born unknown inmate
Bonham, Amanda White age 85 Widown Born unknown inmate
Lemley, Sarah White age 100 Widow born Unknown inmate
Bigby, Tammy white age 51 Widow born unknown inmate
Mercer, Mark Black age 45 widow born unknown inmate
Henry, Luke Black age 75 Widow born unknown inmate
Johnson, Frank Black age 80 widow born unknown inmate
Jackson, Henry Black age 48 widow born unknown inmate
In
May of 1914 There was a contract between Miller county and Y. G. Rice for
repairs on the poor farm which had 4 building to be worked on.
House
#1 was to be re-covered with sap in shingles.
Side wall of two rooms to be celled with flooring.
Replace stud on these walls in the same rooms. Replace two screen doors
and a wire fence in front of housel.
House
#2 Brick Work.
Tear out flue and rebuild.
To remove old house blocks and replace.
To build two pair steps.
Replace two broken window panes.
Repair one door and renail flooring.
Also to recover entire house with sap pine shingles.
And to repair house generally such as re-nailing old boards that are
loose, etc.
House
#3 To
remove ten old blocks and replace with new blocks.
To recover with sap pine shingles.
To build two pair steps.
To furnish foundation same as old and re-floor with new flooring.
House
#4 Replace
old sill in back room with new sill.
Re-nail floor in same room.
Recover roof same as House #3.
To place new sheathing in place of any rotten sheathing.
To build two pairs steps.
Rebuild front porch including joist and floor.
To furnish one bottom sash.
Replace 14 old blocks with new.
To rebuild flue same as house #2
Generally:
The contractor shall re-nail all loose boards where nails have rusted out
at bottom on outside of any house mentioned in these specifications.
Also to repair one toilet.
These specifications are intended for a general repairing.
Contractor to grades of lumber on all houses the same as is now in place.
Under Public Act ? report the following allowances made by the County Court of Miller County, Arkansas during the term beginning July 3rd 1916 and ending Oct 1st 1916.
East Undertaking Co., Burial of paupers, 25.00
Mrs. Etta Culley, Expense Poor Farm 131.25 (Etta M. Crowe 11/19/1894 married Lewis J. Culley)
Mrs. B. J. Bedell, Expense of Pauper, 10.00
Phelps-Hooks Drug Co., Drugs to Poor Farm, 14.60
J. W. Maxwell, Mdse to Paupers, 30.00
Mrs. Etta Cully, Expense Poor Farm, 115.25
East Undertaking Co. Burial Paupers, 15.00
There is a map located at the Miller County Court house with the Poor Farm noted on it also.
Now the County Farm had inspections. It wasn’t just assumed everything was fine. This was done by Grand Jury Reports to the court. Reports were not always favorable. Sometimes there were two a year.
GRAND
JURY REPORT June 1918:
We
find at the Poor Farm that the nine inmates are well cared for and satisified
and wish to commend the present keeper of the farm for his efficiency.
We find several buildings on County Farm in bad repair and would
recommend that these repairs be done at once.
In the 1920 census the farm can be found in Garland Township with William Quillian as the Farm Manager with his wife living with him. There are 9 Paupers listed living on the farm.
Quillian, William A. Male White age 67 Born in Miss. Farm Manager
Quillian, Lucinda E. Wife Female White age 69 Born in Ark
Scoggins, John W. Pauper Male White 30 Born in Alabama
Hornduran, William Pauper Male white age 57 1889 na 1833? Born in Germany
Kehan, John Male white Pauper age 53 Born in Ohio
Deskin, Sam R. Male white age 74 born in Missouri
Printer, Samuel B. Male white Pauper age 5? Born in Missouri
Townson, Andrew R. Male White age 81 Pauper 1869 na 1875 Born in Scotland
Gerber, Edward A. Male White Age 61 Pauper Born in Wisconsin
Cibder, William A. male age 74 white pauper Born in Alabama
Murnhea, Mary Black Pauper Age 53 single born in U. S.
FINAL REPORT OF THE GRAND JURY, NOV.
TERM, 1921
We
have visited the County Poor Farm and find the houses and premises in Fairly
good condition. We do find,
however, that they are very much in need of bedding and clothing; especially now
that winter is here. We would
recommend that the necessary bedding and clothing be supplied at once and
suggest that the county judge give this immediate attention.
We found ten inmates at the farm; Nine
white and one colored.
Final report of the Grand Jury,
November Term 1922
We
have visted the County Poor farm, and have found the inmates well cared for so
far it is possible with the building and equipment provided by the county to
care for same. There were nine
white men and one white woman and one black woman being cared for.
After careful investigation of the farm it is the opinion of this County
Charge. We suggest that the County
Judge do not spend any more funds on this farm is absolutely necessary to give
reasonable care to the inmates but to make arrangements toward the securing of a
new and suitable farm as soon as it is practicable. Apparently this report was not followed, as the county did
not start looking for another place.
7/30/1923 Grand Jury’s final
report
We
have visited the poor farm and found it in deplorable conditions.
All of the building are in need of repairs, especially screens, and
bedding. The flies, mosquitoes,
bedbugs, bats and other insects and pests are about to take the place on account
of the condition of the screens or no screening.
The keeper claims that he had taken the matter up with the County Judge,
but as far has been unable to get any relief.
Our investigation of former grand jury reports reveals the fact that
these matters have been recommended but it seems that nothing has been done to
relieve the inmates. One inmate was
sick and almost helpless, and should be in a hospital apparently he is receiving
no attention whatever. The poor
farm is a disgrace to Miller County and we cannot recommend too strong that the
matters be attended to promptly.
Phone arrives in 5/26/1925 Two
States Tel. Co. Was the company and
the bill for the Poor Farm was 3.00
a month.
6/6/1925
Final
Report of the Grand Jury
We
visited the County Farm and found the premises well kept, and in a neat and
clean condition, and all the inmates of the institution are well cared for. We found none of the land in cultivation save a garden plot.
Our observation of the lands in the farm leads us to believe that the
land is too poor to be cultivated with any degree of success.
We found the building in good condition, but are of the opinion that they
are entirely too close together, making the fire hazard to great.
We recommend that the large building occupied by the male inmates of the
institution be moved one hundred feet south in order to reduce the fire hazard
and also to take advantage of the shade afforded by a large tree on the
premises. We also recommend that
certain repairs be made on the roof of the building occupied by the women.
We further recommend that all of the buildings be given at least two
coats of paint, as none of the buildings have been painted.
We are of the opinion that a fruit orchard and berries be set out of
sufficient size to provided fruits for the use of the inmates and for a surplus
for a sale to the public. We
believe that if this recommendation is carried out the farm in a measure be made
self-supporting. We found that the
well on the property does not supply a sufficient supply of water for use on the
place, and recommend that an additional supply of water be provided. Driving by it looks like there is still an orchard there but
it is only a few trees.
12/31/1925
Final
report of the Grand Jury:
We
have inspected the County Farm and find the building is good condition and find
that all the inmates are well cared for and are satisfied with the treatment,
which they receive. The food is
well prepared and furnished in sufficient quantities.
Pg 441 7/9/1926
Final
Report of Grand Jury:
We
have visited the County Farm. There
at present seven inmates of the County Farm, and they are well treated, well fed
and contented. To desire to commend
Mrs. Chittim, the Keeper of the Farm, for her splendid management of the farm
and her kind consideration of the inmates.
We recommend that the two old houses be torn down.
12/1926
Grand
Jury Report:
The
Grand Jury has inspected the County Poor Farm and found the conditions good. The inmates are well cared for and are not crowded.
One building is poorly constructed but it is understood the County Corium
Court intends to rebuild this one. There
is a lack of water, at dry seasons, which seems to be _________ at this
particular location of the farm, unless a deep well is put down.
It is recommended that a deep well is put down to provide an ample supply
of water at all times
Report of the Grand Jury for the
November Term 1927
The
inmates of the county poor farm are well cared for, well fed and satisfied. And we find this property is in a good state of repair and
being well looked after.
Pg
179-180 7/1928
Report
of the Grand Jury for the June Term 1928
We have also examined the County Poorhouse and Farm and find the same in a very excellent condition. The inmates appear satisfied with the treatment they are receiving, which in our opinion is as good as should be provided.
Report of the grand jury July 1929
Inmates
well cared for. Fences are still up
and everything in good shape.
Grand Jury Report for the term 1930 Good condition
In 1930 census in Garland Township The keeper is Earl Ware and he is living there with his wife and son. There are 8 living there listed as boarders.
Ware, Earl Head Male White age 31 Married at 29 Born in Texas
Ware,__ Wife Fem. Age 26 Married at age 23 born in Tenn
Ware, Curtis Son Male White age 2 born in Ark
Juttman, Santhy J. Boarder Female White age 79 widow married at 19 born in Tenn
Langley, Ada Boarder, Female white age 55 widow married at age 28 born in ark
Scoggins, William, Boarder Male White age 61 born in Ala
Thompson, James W. Boarder Male White age 65 Widow married at age 29 born in Ark
Jones, William A. Boarder male white age 34 born in Ark
Morris, George W. Boarder male white age 71 widow married at 31 born in Georgia
Wilson Urich S.??? boarder male white age 78 born in Tenn Background info: (1920 Wilson , uriah S Boarder age 68 born in Tenn. He is shown as a boarder. Widow Occupation is none father born in Virg. Mother NC. Days Creek Township Living in John Giles household. 1910, Uriach age 56 head . Owned farm. Showing Single. His place of birth and parents are the same as 1920. Living in Days Creek Township Not far from Giles. 1900 Wilson Uriah age 48 Single april. 1852 Farmer owned farm Giles not far away
Pierce, Frank Boarder male white age 64 widow married at age 24 born in Missouri
In the matter of the poor and indigent of Miller County Arkansas. See Book O Miller County Court Records
July 1931 Grand Jury Report
We have through our committee, inspected the Poor Farm. We are pleased to report that all buildings and properties of the farm are in first class condition. The inmates seem to be contented and say they are well fed.
5/31/1941
Poor Farm Maintaince Mrs. Hattie Smith 180.00
Poor Farm Service S. W. Gas & Elec. Co 1.86
Poor Farm Supplies Fowler Drug 10.48
6/30/1941
A. A. Staley Pauper Gro 5.00
7/1/1941
Mrs. Hattie Smith Poor Farm Maint. 180.00
7/10/1941
Buhrman Pharr Hdw. Gro. Poor Farm 18.50
7/20/1941
S. W. & Gas & Elec Co. Service Poor Farm 2.64
7/31/1941
Burial handled by East Funeral Home
|
JECKYLA,
Martha |
age
70 |
7/31/1941 |
Miller
County Poor Farm |
1/1 thru 1/31/1942 & 2/1 thru 2/29/1944 Bills paid by County for Poor Farm
S. W. Gas & Elect 7.55
Fowler Drug Co. 15.91
Clark & Co. - Ins. C. H. & Poor Farm 296.52
Rufus Barkeen Pauper Exp 15.00
Hattie Smith 180.00
March 1944
Poor farm Maint. Hattie Smith 180.00
DISPOSAL OF THE POOR FARM
10/11/1951
In the matter of the disposal of the county property. Appearing to the Court that Miller County, Arkansas is the owner and in possession of a parcel of land described to wit; NW NE 22 15 28 Known as the County Poor Farm. It appearing further that said property should be sold and disposed of and the proceeds applied to the purchase of more desirable property to be used for the care or the aged. It is therefore by the Court considered, ordered and adjudged that said property be sold, and that a certified copy of this order be presented and delivered to the Assessor of Miller County, Arkansas and that he cause an appraisal of said property to be made, and file same with the Clerk of this court as provided by law. Signed by Jewel Evers, County Judge. County clerk Ell Westbrook. Weaver Lewis Tax Assessor. Stated fair cash market value of said property is sum of 3000.00 signed by Robert Boehmen, Morris M. Haak, and Naomi Watson.
Newspaper
reported on 10/14/1951 Texarkana Papers
Miller
County to Sell Farm Property
The Miller County Poor farm near Rondo will be sold and the occupants relocated Judge Jewel Evers said Saturday. He said the move was necessary because of the remoteness of the present farm and because most of the 40 acres lay idle. Judge Evers said that the need for closer medical supervision was another factor in the decision to sell the farm. A new Poor farm site was not disclosed, pending completion of purchase. Bids will be accepted till Nov 1 1951 at the county Judges office.
10/21/1951
Texarkana Papers Legal Notice of sale of county property
Notice
is hereby given that Miller County Arkansas will offer for sale the following
described real estate located and situated in Miller County, Arkansas upon
sealed bids from the highest bidder subject to the approval of the board of
approval to wit:
The Northwest quarter of the northeast quarter of Section 22, township 22, township 15, south of range 28 west known as the County Poor Farm. Sealed bids shall be submitted to the office of the County Judge, Room 115 Arkansas, by the 1st day of Nov. 1951. The appraised value of said property appraised as provided by law is 3000.00. The county judge and the Board of Approval retains the right to reject any and all bids received pursuant to this notice as provided by law. Jewel Evers County Judge of Miller County Ark.
11/26/1951
Miller county poor farm sold for 4550.00. Northwest Quarter of Northeast Quarter of Section 22, Township 15, South, range 28 West. Containing 40 acres and Improvements; known as Miller County Poor Farm.
COUNTY HOME
County Home Lots 10 & 11 & 12 in Blk 2. H. P Williams Southside Addition
I believe all this below refers to the County Home that was a nursing home.
12/1954
Custodian Hattie smith 110.00
3/3/1956
Custodian Hattie Smith 110.00
4/3/1956
Name Hattie Smith drops off
5/1956
Jamie F. Hall Jr shows up as custodian
9/13/1961
Order to sell county property referred to as County Home.
KEEPERS OF THE POOR FARM
1885- A. S. Jones
1886- J. M. Childs
1887- W. W. McGee / He failed to comply so Thomas Hodge was assigned
1888
1889- J. R. Pitts
1890- J. R. Pitts
1891
1892- Hines Euganks
1893- Thomas Hodge
1894- Thomas Hodge
1895- Thomas Hodge
1896- Thomas Hodge
1897
1898
1899- A. J. Maxey
1900- A. J. Maxey
1901- Thomas Hodge
1902- H. V. Earnest
1903- H. V. Earnest
1904- W. H. Dean
1905- Thomas Hodge
1906- N. W. Randolf
1907- Mrs. Elda Randolf
1908
1909- S. G. Cully
1910- Lewis J. Cully
1911- Mrs. Etta Cully
1912- Mrs. Etta Cully
1913- Mrs. Etta Cully
1914- Mrs. Etta Cully
1915- Mrs. Etta Cully
1916- Mrs. Etta Hyndman / Mrs. Cully married 11/16/1916 J. W. Hyndman
1917- Mr. W. A. Quillen
1918- Mr. W. A. Quillen
1919- Mr. W. A. Quillen
1920- Mr. W. A. Quillen
1921- J. C. Blanchett
1922- J. C. Blanchett
1923- J. C. Blanchett / Bert Roberts Oct 1923
1924- Mrs. Ella Chittem
1925- Mrs. Ella Chittem
1926- Mrs. Ella Chittem
1927- Mrs. Ella Chittem
1928- Mrs. Ella Chittem
1929- Earl Ware
1930- Earl Ware
1931- Earl Ware
1932- Earl Ware
1933- Earl Ware
1934- Earl Ware
1935- Earl Ware
1936- Mrs. C. B. (Kate) Vanderbuilt
1937- Kate Vanderbuilt
1938- Katie Vanderbuilt
1939- Katie Vanderbuilt
1940
1941- Hattie Smith
1942- Hattie Smith
1943- Hattie Smith
1944- Hattie Smith
1945
1946
1947
1948
1949
1950
1951