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

Care for Her Through the YWCA: For Every Fighter a Woman Worker

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World War I poster created by Adolph Treidler to publicize the YWCA's participation in the United War Work Campaign, November 11 - 18, 1918.The United…

Joan of Arc Saved France. Women of America Save Your Country

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World War I poster created by Haskell Coffin for the United States Treasury Department.A radiant Joan of Arc wearing a suit of armor, lifts her sword…

Neighborhood House Sabbath School Class, 1921

Beth Ahabah_Neighborhood House Sabbath School Class 1921 ages 8-9 rsz.jpg

Photograph of children ages 8 - 9 in the Neighborhood House Sabbath School, Richmond, VA. Taken in 1921.In the early 1900’s, non-resident settlement…