Explore the history of American social reform and social services 

The Social Welfare History Image Portal brings together photographs, pamphlets, artifacts and documents chronicling the history of the nation's response to human need. This history includes the work of volunteer organizations, reform movements, social workers, and government legislation and systems.

Featured Items

Report of the Legislative Commission For the Blind, 1920-21 [Commonwealth of Virginia]

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A report made to the Governor and Members of the General Assembly of Virginia by the first Commission for the Blind.The report's Appendix includes:…

Members of the Virginia League of Women Voters, January 1923, Alexandria, Va.

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Members of the Virginia League of Women Voters meeting in Alexandria, Virginia on February 3, 1923.Identification from back of photo Left to…

At the Prohibition Ball: novelty song

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Musical score for voice and piano. Illustrated title page in blue, orange, and white; ballroom scene with clock showing midnight, ghostly figure…