Kevin Kolsto (seen here with some Johnson County Board of Supervisors) cut the ribbon on a healing trail at the Johnson County Poor Farm on November 14. Located at 4811 Melrose Avenue, the Poor Farm is going through renovations in order to honor the people who once lived there, while providing a community space for all to enjoy.
When it opened its doors in 1855, it was seen as a humane way to care for those in need. Many other counties in the state had adopted or would adopt this model. People living with disabilities, those who owed debts, or the elderly were placed here at times when there was no one to care for them. They lived in very small, stockade-like quarters and were forced to work on the farm. Johnson County’s Poor Farm is one of the few remaining structures that highlights this often painful past.
Kevin is a member of the advisory group that informed the Board of Supervisors on ideas about what to highlight and gave practical insights at the poor farm, such as ramps needed, so those living with disabilities could visit. Kevin stated, “It really was great to be a part of this. I think I really helped them know what things to think about so people who use a chair like mine can get around.”
For more information on the Johnson County Poor Farm, click here.
