A Look into Adoption in the 1890s

By Susan G Mathis

The Gilded Age 1890s marked a significant period in history, witnessing the emergence of societal changes, technological advancements, and a growing awareness of humanitarian values. In this era, the concept of adoption began to evolve, reflecting the shifting perspectives on family, child welfare, and societal responsibilities.

During the 1890s, traditional notions of family structure were undergoing transformation. The Victorian era emphasized moral values and family stability, but societal shifts, including urbanization and industrialization, were challenging these established norms. As families faced new economic challenges and societal expectations, the idea of adoption became a solution for both childless couples and orphaned children.

Adoption, however, was not yet a formalized legal process during this period. Instead, informal arrangements and personal agreements often characterized the placement of children into new families. Legal adoptions were rare, and there was minimal regulation governing the process. As a result, the well-being of adopted children depended largely on the intentions and capabilities of the adoptive parents.

The 1890s witnessed a gradual shift in the perception of parenting. While biological ties were still highly valued, there was a growing acknowledgment that love, care, and proper upbringing were crucial factors in ensuring a child's well-being. This changing perspective laid the groundwork for a more inclusive understanding of family, paving the way for the formalization of adoption processes in the decades to come.

Despite the positive intentions behind adoption efforts in the 1890s, challenges and controversies persisted. The lack of legal regulations meant that some children faced uncertain futures, and unscrupulous individuals took advantage of the informal nature of adoption arrangements. Additionally, societal stigma surrounding non-biological parenthood contributed to the challenges faced by adoptive families.

In my latest novel, Libby’s Lighthouse, Libby is adopted and grows up at Tibbetts Lighthouse, but she faces rumors, innuendos, and prejudices connected to adoption during this time. The challenges faced during this period also underscored the importance of establishing proper legal safeguards to ensure the well-being of adopted children and the integrity of the adoption process.


Do you know someone who was adopted? Leave your answer or comments on the post below and join me on October 19th for my next post.

ABOUT LIBBY’S LIGHTHOUSE:

Elizabeth Montonna, daughter of the Tibbett’s Point Lighthouse keeper, thought she’d love the lighthouse life forever—until her dying mother reveals a long-buried secret. Now Libby questions if she’ll ever truly belong and be loved. But when a dashing wounded sailor appears knowing nothing about his past or identity, his kindness and character steal a little more of her heart each day. Owen has no choice but to accept the hospitality of the lighthouse keeper and his lovely daughter. As his relationship with Libby turns serious, he knows their budding romance can go no further until he uncovers his past. With each passing day, Owen discovers the secrets of his identity, but will the revelations bring him closer to Libby or tear them apart forever?

ABOUT SUSAN:

Susan G Mathis is an international award-winning, multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands in upstate NY. Susan has been published more than thirty times in full-length novels, novellas, and non-fiction books. She has eleven in her fiction line. Susan is also a published author of two premarital books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan lives in Colorado Springs and enjoys traveling the world. Visit www.SusanGMathis.com/fiction for more.