I am looking for any information regarding an orphanage in Columbus, MS during the early 1900's. My great grandparents were both killed in World War 1 and all 13 children were sent to an orphanage. I would like any information/records that are obtainable since my grandmother is deceased now. Thanks for your help.

The Palmer Orphanage was located in Columbus, MS. It is listed in a special census of dependent children which was conducted in 1923. As far as I know, the names of the children were not taken, just statistics. The census says that the orphanage was for white children, under the auspices of the Presbyterian Church. It was established in 1898.

A directory from 1978 lists Palmer Home, POB 746, Columbus MS 39701.

The second institution in Columbus was established in 1921: the Masonic Home for Boys. Under the auspices of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi.

The best advice for research would be to check the 1920 census. It was indexed by surname according to the Soundex code, but it might be simpler to just read all the entries in Columbus. A branch library of the Family History Library (in Salt Lake City, UT) could help you do the research.

Reg Niles

Thank you so much. I really appreciate your help. Have a blessed day.

You might also try the library----they have a lot of local history information in thier archives. Palmer Home would probably be your best chance if they were kept together. It is still in existance but is more like foster care now. They do not adopt children out.

http://www.lowndes.lib.ms.us/

Christina, I am an alumni of the Palmer Home for Children in Columbus, Ms. When I arrived at Palmer it was called Palmer Orphanage, but the name was changed later. I have some records for Palmer Home, and will be happy to see if I have any information on your grandmother. Please list the names of the children, and about the dates they would have been at Palmer. Cecilia Ann Harris Gossman, a Palmer Home for Children alumni.