The Larkin Children's Home's history dates back to May of 1892. Mary
Peabody was asked to care for 3-day old twins who lost their mother due to
pneumonia. Before long, Mary's generosity would be called on several
more times, when two other children showed up on her door. Between 1894
and 1895, her home became known as "The Miss Mary Peabody Home for
Babies".
Soon Mary's Liberty Street home would be prove to be too small for the new
arrivals. By June 22, 1896, an organization was formed called The Elgin
Children's Home Association. Their mission statement was to:
"...care for and to provide for the wants of destitute, abused or
neglected children under 14 years old...". That year, they moved to 685
E. Chicago Street. They clearly distinguished themselves from an
orphanage by calling themselves a "real home". Their goal was
for children to eventually go back to their parents, therefore uniting
families, not separating them.
Around 1902, farmer Cyrus Larkin donated his 320 S. State Street home
to the center, if they agreed to rename themselves The Larkin Home for
Children, in honor of his late mother. However, by 1912, their State Street
location would no longer be adequate. The home and 3 1/2 acres of land
pictured above was donated by Mr. and Mrs. A. D. Edwards in 1926.
