Knox County, Illinois - The whole text, 1912 (part 7 of 56)

GENTLEMEN : - I would respectfully report for the information of the people of the county that there are at present io6 inmates in the Knox county aimshouse. Of this number 25 are insane. The capacity of the house for the proper care of this class of persons is limited by the number of properly prepared rooms. Of these there are only 23. While some of this class may, with safety, be permitted to enjoy the free range of the common wards in the day time, there is not one that can be trusted at liberty during the night. Common humanity requires that this class be restricted in their liberty as little as possible, compatible with their safety, the safety of the house and the safety of others. When it is considered what devices such persons will resort to for the purpose of greater freedom of action, it is not to be wondered at that escapes will occur. They do occur at asylums, where every safeguard known to hospital management is in force, and the wonder is they do not occur more frequently from our almshouse, where the means for the absolute safety of the inmates is so limited. This class is progressively increasing in number. They are being sent back from the insane hospital as incurable ; the County court continues to send them till arrangements are made for their reception at the asylum, which reception generally turns on the demand that some of the county's representatives at the asylum be removed back to the county almshouse. This interchange of recently insane for incurable insane has been going on between the almshouse and insane asylum for now these several years. The records of Knox county do not show a return at all commensurate with the expense of hospital treatment. Of the numerous cases sent to the state hospitals, how many have returned cured ? The gentlemen of the board can each answer for himself and for his own township. The function of the state asylums, it seems, is principally the safe care of the insane, and this care should not be limited by the mere fact that a "county's quota" is full, any more than the care of the almshouse should be limited by the mere fact that one or two townships furnish the larger number of inmates, some townships not being represented at all. This is a reason, we understand, that the asylum authorities give for not promptly receiving those recently adjudged insane. If now Knox county's quota is more than full at the asylum, the capacity of the almshouse is more than exhausted, and other provisions must soon be provided for this unfortunate class of our citizens; and no apology is needed if I present in this connection some statistics bearing upon .- the expense of furnishing the protection.

From a paper read by Dr. Wilbur of New York before the American Social Science Association in September, 1877, it appears that the cost of the building alone of twenty insane asylums in the United States was $19,506,000. Number of insane provided for by these twenty asylums, 9,875. Furniture and other appliances are not included in the above estimate. The per capita cost is more than $2,000. But one Illinois asylum was included in the above estimate. The cost of it was put down at $534,000 with a capacity of 450, making it $1,186.66 per capita. Fstimating the cost of the Knox county almshouse at $50,000, with an average family of 75, the cost per capita is only $666. Showing a very decided economy in the county taking care of its own incurable insane. Whether it is generally known or not, there has been between ten and twelve million dollars uselessly expended in the construction of state hospitals, of such a character that one-half of the insane of the country might be luxuriously taken care of while the other half are insecurely kept in almshouses. And here I might state that it is the judgment of those qualified to give an opinion in the case, that the insane and sane paupers should not be kept together; that is, separate buildings should be provided for each. .-.

In addition to the 25 insane in the almshouse there are 25 idiots. These patients, when the idiocy does not depend upon epilepsy, might very well be kept with the sane poor. Since the last annual meeting (September, 1877) there have been but five deaths: .:-' - -: -;;.H; :. ' ' - :

There has been in the same time three births. The superintendent has provided a register and library fund book for the use of visitors who may feel disposed to contribute anything towards providing reading matter for the family. This fund has already secured the regular reception of several magazines and ^-'. enabled the superintendent to purchase quite a number of useful and enter-

- taining books for the family. The Library is indebted to Mr. Cephas Arms of Knoxville for some twenty or twenty-five volumes, Judge Douglas and daughter of Galesburg have the thanks of the family for numerous volumes of the "Ladies

- Repository." The First National bank of Knoxville has continued its contribution of files of the Chicago dailies. For all these favors the family desires, through me, to extend its thanks.

It remains for me to report on the resolution of the board, at its last meeting, in respect to the discontinuance of the habitual use of opium in any form by the inmates of the almshouse. Before the passage of the resolution I had made several attempts to reduce the amount used. Every reduction I made was : ascribed by the patients to some "grudge" the superintendent or physician had against them, so I availed myself of a semi-permission, on the part of some mem-

- bers of the board, to continue the usual allowance, till the present meeting with the full understanding of the patients that it would then positively and abruptly stop. Any subterfuge on the part of the habitual opium eater, in order to obtain the drug, is considered honorable and here, as the last supply has run short, certain plans have been resorted to. One of the patients, after boasting

- that he was cured, was caught at the medicine case helping himself from the laudanum bottle. He states that he has had no morphine from the county for six weeks. To your physician's personal knowledge he has had two drachm bottles of morphine in this time, his full amount.

We can see no more reason why opium intoxication should be permitted at the almshouse than alcoholic intoxication; and we are thankful to the board that it has assumed the responsibility of forbidding its continuance, in this way relieving us of unjust censure on the part of the patients. , ., ,

Mr. Gale presented a resolution directing the almshouse committee to advertise for supplies for that institution. Referred to committee on almshouse and paupers.

January, 1879. - Mr. Hale, from special committee to whom was referred the subject of protection to the almshouse from fire, presented the following report: To the Honorable Board of Supervisors of Knox County:

Your committee, heretofore appointed to inquire into and report upon the practicability and expense of providing some adequate protection from loss and casualty from fire in the Knox county almshouse and by subsequent resolution, authorized to employ Zelotes Cooley, Esq., to examine the several plans proposed, and report the result, with the probable expense of the plan recommended, beg leave to submit the following report from Mr. Cooley, in compliance with the foregoing resolution, towit: State of Illinois, ) ' - ; ; - .' -V-, ,:- /

The undersigned, to whom was referred the matter of providing some suitable plan for the protection of the county almshouse from destruction by fire, respectfully report: That he made an examination of the building for that purpose, and after considering the matter would recommend that the two water tanks now in the building be used for that purpose, with an additional tank, to be placed as near the center of the building as can be, with a capacity equal to the other two tanks in the building, all these tanks I would connect by suitable pipes running from each tank to the basement story of the building, connecting with a horizontal pipe running east and west from the west tank to the east one; from the horizontal pipe I would have three stand pipes, one in each wing of the building, and the other near the center east and west, running up through both stories, making three places in each story for discharging the water. It would require something like one hundred and twenty-five feet of hose pipe for each story. From such information as I have been able to obtain, I think that the cost of the works complete, would be about three hundred dollars. ;-!;

Your committee have examined the plan submitted in the foregoing report and deem it practicable, and the probable expenses reasonable ; and recommend that the said plan be adopted, and that the undersigned committee be authorized and instructed to superintend the construction and erection of said improvement, with such authority to make purchases, and employ assistants and perform other acts as shall be necessary in the execution of the duty imposed upon them.- ' All of which is respectfully submitted. > '=-V:. ,,----'- - ; . '- '-^ '

Resolved, That it is the duty of the several overseers of the poor in this county to remove to the almshouse all persons requiring relief from the county, except in the following cases :

And that the county will not be responsible for relief given outside of the almshouse, except in the above cases, and then only when the relief has been ordered by the overseer of the poor of the town where the relief is given. ,' The yeas and nays being demanded, resulted: ; '. -^^.

April Meeting, 1879. - Mr. Hale from special committee on protection to the almshouse from fire presented the following rfeport: To the Honorable Board of Supervisors of Knox County. . :--;--.. .r'/v;.

That acting under the authority conferred upon them they employed the Haxtun Steam Heating Company of Kewanee, 111., to construct and place in the said building such an apparatus as was approved by the said board, at the January meeting, 1879, by contract accpmpanying this report, for the sum of $335; that the said contractors have constructed and placed the said apparatus in the said building, but that up to this date it has not been perfected so as to be accepted by the committee. They recommend that the sum of $338.41 (of which sum $3.41 is for extra materials not covered by the contract) be appropriated to the payment for said improvements, to be paid over to the contractors when the said work and apparatus shall be complete and perfect according to contract and accepted by this committee.

. .:. Resolved, That it is the duty of the several overseers of the poor in this county to remove to the almshouse all persons requiring relief from the county, except in the following cases:

And that the county will not be responsible for relief given outside of the almshouse, except in the above cases, and then onlv when the relief has been ordered by the overseer of the poor of the town where the relief is given.

July Meeting, 1879. - Communication of Mrs. L. J. Cleveland. :'-/:-. 1. ; , .. To the Honorable Almshouse Committee and Board of Supervisors.

GENTLEMEN : - Your superintendent would respectfully submit the following report. Since your last meeting there have been I37i/^ individual weeks board furnished at a cost of $1.09, not including improvements and repairs; and $1.57 including all expenses incurred in operating the institution and farm. At present there are 103 inmates, 59 males and 44 females. Of this number 25 are over 60 years of age, 14 over 70 and 4 over 80, and 12 children under lo. Of the above number 29 are insane, 22 idiotic. There have been no births and but one death, which was that of the oldest member of the family. We are under obligation to Rev. Mr. Waddle and Deacon Arms for conducting the funeral services.

c Through the kindness of the Presbyterian clergy and laymen, and the Swedish clergy of Knoxville, the inmates have the advantage of religious instruction almost every sabbath, and generous benefactors have furnished them with a sufficient supply of reading matter.

The usual amount of repairing, plastering, kalsomining, painting and papering, with the addition of replacing three stone window cappings, has been done ; also considerable cane matting has been furnished. However, it requires constant renewing and repairing to preserve the building, and keep the institution in a good condition. Unfortunately the house is not properly constructed to care for and treat insane patients. Those who are safe to be at liberty have free range of the wards and yard during the day; those that are not safe to be so left are taken out three times a day by an attendant and exercised. Constant attention is given to cleanliness, patients being bathed as often as necessary. This is not all that ought to be done, but all that can be done with the present arrangements. There are a few of the patients who are very destructive, and for the purpose of restraining them at such times we use Fisher's patent leather muffs, otherwise they would destroy all within their reach.

In respect to the purchasing of supplies the same course has been pursued as heretofore; bids have been solicited from numerous dealers, and the purchases have been made from those who furnished the best goods for the least money.

Believing a visit by the board to the institution would be advantageous to the citizens of the county I extend a cordial invitation to your honorable body to visit the house and farm during the present meeting.

GENTLEMEN : - During the past three months there have been eighteen admissions to the almshouse. With the exception of four children, all of these have been more or less sick. One, a tramp, was dangerously so, and is not likely to recover. Repeated attacks of pleurisy have resulted in the exudation of pus in the pleural cavity. Two of the recent admissions have left the house; the others remain. One, coming in with a comeal ulcer and purulent inflammation of the eyes, was sent - as soon as she could be got ready - to the state eye and ear infirmary. The corneal ulceration had commenced but ten days before her admission, and, being over center of pupil, there seemed a probability that, after healing, there would be such an amount of opacity left that permanent blindness and permanent pauperism would follow. This seemed a sufficient reason for sending her to Chicago. While your physician is perhaps as competent as any other general practitioner in the county to treat diseases of the eye, he does not pretend to the skill possessed by the surgeons in charge of the state hospital for diseases of the eye and ear. Inasmuch as the only cost for treatment at the state hospital is the railroad fare to and from Chicago, I would strongly recommend that such patients be sent direct from several towns, rather than sending them to the almshouse, as being much cheaper, and also affording the patient a better chance for recovery, from early treatment. An affidavit from the patient as to his being a pauper, and a certificate from the supervisor that the patient is one. is all that is necessary to insure admission to the hosptial. The return ticket should be sent to the superintendent, so that, in case of fire or any epidemic disease occuring, the patient may be prpmptly returned to the county. A complete change of clothing is also required. The patient above referred to was treated last winter, as an out-door patient ; but from that attack and a prior one she had entirely recovered. ' '--- - '- ' '- -' /' ': . v^V. -I

Of the recent admissions, one is alleged to be insane; yet no steps have been taken to have him so pronounced by the legally constituted authorities. He is being held by the superintendent at the risk of those who brought him to the almshouse. There is probably no doubt as to his condition, but this should have been determined before he was sent to the house.

There is another case - a man about 30 years of age - sent in January last to the house, to wait for admission to the insane hospital. If it falls within the jurisdiction of the sheriff to convey such parties to the asylum, he had better keep them under his own control and observation till such transference is made. The patient might, in this way, get the benefit of earlier treatment, which is most valuable in insanity as in other diseases.

Within the past few weeks there has come into the hands of your physician the report of the state board of public charities (Repoit for 1878), which would make rather valuable reading for many citizens of the county, whose deductions as to the relative cost and manner of keeping paupers in various parts of the state are quite at variance with the facts. In respect to one county that has been held up as a model for us the report says: "This county has never treated its insane well. Two of the present inmates, who are insane, have been shut up for seventeen years. One was kept for many years in chains. They are not properly cared for in respect to cleanliness." It falls within the province of the superintendent and the honorable almshouse committee to report how such patients are kept in Knox county. I might say, however, that the "model" county - although five townships smaller, and with 500 less population (census of 1870) than Knox county - had, from the ist day of October, 1877, to the 3Oth day of September, 1878, 17,645 days' board at the different state institutions, while Knox county had but 13,823 - a difference of 3,822 days' board. The outdoor relief also varies greatly. At a late meeting of the board of supervisors there were 641 persons aided from the county treasury. The farm in this county contains nearly 200 acres, and the family averages below eighty. When, therefore, comparisons are made for the purpose of putting the management of the Knox county charities in an unfavorable light, it would be nothing more than justice to make the comparison a complete one by taking some pains to learn all the facts bearing upon the case. ;"'.-''- I -;-- -- \ .;

Resolved, That upon certificate of the chairman of the almshouse committee that the work has been completed and accepted by the committee, the clerk be directed to issue orders in favor of Merrill & Wilber for $iio, being the balance due them for work, repairing basement and building coal house at aimshouse. - ..- : :. , -« should be sent to the superintendent, so that, in case of fire or any epidemic disease occuring, the patient may be promptly returned to the county. A complete change of clothing is also required. The patient above referred to was treated last winter, as an out-door patient; but from that attack and a prior one she had entirely recovered. .

Of the recent admissions, one is alleged to be insane; yet no steps have been taken to have him so pronounced by the legally constituted authorities. He is being held by the superintendent at the risk of those who brought him to the almshouse. There is probably no doubt as to his condition, but this should have been determined before he was sent to the house. 1

There is another case - a man about 30 years of age - sent in January last to the house, to wait for admission to the insane hospital. If it falls within the jurisdiction of the sheriff to convey such parties to the asylum, he had better keep them under his own control and observation till such transference is made. The patient might, in this way, get the benefit of earlier treatment, which is most valuable in insanity as in other diseases.

Within the past few weeks there has come into the hands of your physician the report of the state board of public charities (Report for 1878), which would make rather valuable reading for many citizens of the county, whose deductions as to the relative cost and manner of keeping paupers in various parts of the state are quite at variance with the facts. In respect to one county that has been held up as a model for us the report says : "This county has never treated its insane well. Two of the present inmates, who are insane, have been shut up for seventeen years. One was kept for many years in chains. They are not properly cared for in respect to cleanliness." It falls within the province of the superintendent and the honorable almshouse committee to report how such patients are kept in Knox county. I might say, however, that the "model" county - although five townships smaller, and with 500 less population (census of 1870) than Knox county - had, from the ist day of October, 1877, to the 30th day of September, 1878, 17,645 days' board at the different state institutions, while Knox county had but 13,823 - a difference of 3,822 days' board. The outdoor relief also varies greatly. At a late meeting of the board of supervisors there were 641 persons aided from the county treasury. The farm in this county contains nearly 200 acres, and the family averages below eighty. When, therefore, comparisons are made for the purpose of putting the management of the Knox county charities in an unfavorable light, it would be nothing more than justice to make the comparison a complete one by taking some pains to learn all the facts bearing upon the case. - . | ..

Resolved, That upon certificate of the chairman of the almshouse committee that the work has been completed and accepted by the committee, the clerk be directed to issue orders in favor of Merrill & Wilber for $iio, being the balance due them for work, repairing basement and building coal house at aimshouse. - . ^ .

- Resolved, That it is the duty of the several overseers of the poor of the ./; county to remove to the almshouse all persons requiring relief from the county, :.' except in the following cases: . . .; . ,. ,

And the county will not be responsible for relief given outside the almshouse, "except in the above cases, and then only when relief has been ordered by the overseer of the poor in the town where the relief is given.

Mr. May moved that the overseer of the poor of the city of Galesburg -shall receive from the county a sum not exceeding three hundred dollars per : annum for his services. Adopted. .--,':

; Adjourned Meeting, August 6, 1883. - Mr. Charles read the following report ' of the committee on almshouse and paupers on almshouse proper :

We desire to call attention to the fact that we have not sufficient accommoda- . tion for our insane at the county almshouse and would recommend the appoint- -: ment of a committee to take the matter into consideration and report at our next meeting.. . . . .... j ;--.;.-.-. -..^/ ... - v

Mr. Gale moved that the report be adopted and its recommendations concurred in, except the last clause pertaining to increased accommodations at the almshouse. Carried. . _: . .

Mr. Gale moved that the matter pertaining to the increased accommodations at the almshousp be referred to the committee on almshouse and paupers.

September Meeting, 1883. - A communication from the state board of public charities in regard to increased accommodation for the insane was read and referred to same committee.

. Mr. Charles read the following report of the committee to whom was referred the matter of providing increased accommodations for the insane:

Your special committee, to whom was referred the matter of increased accommodations for the insane at the almshouse, beg leave to report that after inquiry, we find there are in the almshouse thirty-three insane patients. With the exception of three or four they are easily managed. We learn that the state, acting under a bill appropriating nearly $500,000, is now making accommodations for about fourteen hundred patients in addition to those already provided for, which will allow our county an additional quota of about sixteen.

Your committee are of opinion that when the accommodations above referred to are completed there will be ample room at our almshouse for all that may remain.

We, therefore, recommend that no action be taken at the present in the matter of making further accommodations for the insane. - 'V^'V'^: Respectfully submitted, v^V;-'^^ '^ ----'! '

W. Selden Gale

January, 1890. - The hour for the consideration of the report of the special committee on care of the insane having arrived, the report was called up, and on motion of Mr. Simpson the report was adopted and its recommendations concurred in by the board. ' ^ -''-''- '-->"::,v-'^Y

Board Of Supervisors, January Term, 1890

. . In making their investigation they have visited the state institutions at Jacksonville and Kankakee and the county houses in neighboring counties, where provision has recently been made for the county insane. After advising with the superintendents of these institutions, examining buildings and equipment, and giving attention to the methods of management, they consulted Mr. I. A. Coleman, the architect of the state buildings now in progress of construction, and after conference and consultation with him on the ground at the almshouse, employed him to furnish plans and estimates of cost, which they herewith submit. The plans are for a building three stories in height, to correspond with the present almshouse building, attached to the west wing by a corridor adapted to use in connection with the almshouse, under the same superintendent, using in common the present offices, kitchen, laundry and heating apparatus - to accommodate forty patients and to be constructed as nearly fire-proof as possible with reasonable outlay. .'---'-..'

. The committee find it impossible to determine with any certainty the number of patients the county will be called upon to provide for. It has been the declared policy of the state to provide for all the insane, others as well as those who are a public charge. The provision made by the state has never been quite adequate, and the additions made from time to time have been exceeded by the increase in applicants. This county has always been obliged to care for some of the insane poor, and has also sheltered some who were not paupers, but who could neither - get admittance into the state asylums nor be properly cared for at home. v;^

Six years ago some provision to be made by the county seemed imperative, .v but about that time the state institutions were very much enlarged, the quota ~ ' of this county was increased and as some counties were slow in calling for the ^^ . accommodations they were entitled to, this county was permitted to send patients ' . in excess of its quota, and was for the time relieved. At the present time all ,; ' the state institutions appear to be crowded and this county is called on to remove ' all its patients in excess of its quota. ,

.:' Provision has been made for an increase of capacity of three asylums of - 300 each, an addition of nearly 25 per cent to the present capacity of all the ; ; asylums. This will not be available before 1891. In the meantime the census . - for 1890 will afford a new basis for apportionment, and the advantage this '.- county might gain will be to a large extent neutralized by the excessive com- v parative growth of Cook county. ; . ; no.-. : -

While Knox county is one of the few that has, since the last census, mater- : ially added to its population, it is quite certain its growth has been in a less ratio than that of the whole state. Cook county included.

If the number of the insane contirtues to increase with the increase of popula- .-/ tion (and for years past the increase of insane seems relatively greater), there .' . will be an increased pressure, only to be relieved by additional provision to be .- . made by the state, except so far as some relief may be had by change of basis ;^^;'.' of apportionment./ ^i^^ : : - ^-^' ; ;x';''^: -

The apportionment is now made among counties according to population. ;v It may hereafter be fixed according to the number of insane. If, as seems to be t. : the case, the insane in this county are usually numerous compared with the .. . population, we may realize some greater increase of quota in the next appor- " tionment. ;.*-ri- ; . .^:;

That such change of basis will be made is not certain. Nor is it certain - the state will continue to extend its asylums. The opinion may prevail that it ;:- is better to leave the several counties to provide each for itself for any further increase. And it may be well to say that after what the committee have learned l-:'-'.^'. of the methods of management in the state asylums and the county houses, their '/ opinions on this subject are modified, and they believe, that, while as a general .; .. rule, a more careful management of public funds may be expected from county ;-;-- boards than from state officials, yet in the provision for and care of the insane the best results are to be hoped for when the institution is sufficiently large to : afford and secure the highest education and talent in the management and the , most thoroughly trained and competent assistants, and when the outlay in construction and equipment will be in the hands of those who have made the matter a special study. ; -. . -

But the opinion of this committee or this board on this subject will not control ' . the action of the state, and the most it is worth is as an indication of the con- ;-; , elusions to which others, with opportunity for investigation, may be likely to /: , arrive. -v

In estimating the wants of this county in new constructions we do not ;; think it worth while to take into account the small provision not existing in the almshouse and jail. ...... . , . -. . .. '' -

That in the jail is needed for temporary detention of persons on their way elsewhere. That in the almshouse does not permit the seclusion of the patients from non-insane inmates, or the special care patients might have associated with the other insane and put to the use of paupers, it is a small margin for increase in their number. !.

The number of Knox county insane now in public institutions is: At Jack-j; sonville, 46; Kankakee, ii; almshouse, i8; jail, 4; in all, 79. Our present quota in the state institutions is 46, and we are entitled to place these only at Jacksonville, leaving to be provided for by this county, 33. This number to be cared for by the county will be decreased in the distribution of the provision now being made by the state. " ' i ' '

It may possibly be further reduced by a change in basis of apportionment. And if the state should extend its provision for the insane to meet the further increase of population, either by enlarging the asylums or the building of new ones, there may never be anything more than a temporary increase and the building may stand only partially occupied and useful as a guarantee against inconvenience caused by a sudden increase of population in this county or some delay in state action in making provision to meet the increase of population in the state. But if no further provision be made by the state and the county be called on to take care of its own increase or meet the diminution of its quota consequent on increase of population in other parts of the state, it will not be many years that a house for 40 patients will exceed the wants of the county.

The committee believe no time should be lost in making whatever provision the board thinks best to make, and they recommend that a committee be authorized to settle upon plans substantially conforming to those furnished by Mr. Coleman ; that they be authorized to employ an architect to make complete working plans and prepare proi>er specifications, to advertise for building contracts, to let contracts and to proceed with the building as rapidly as can be made profitable.

They think by prompt action the contract may be let by the middle of February and the work begun as soon as the materials can be had and the weather will permit work. , . . '. \' . ' - . ''*^\ - /:; - K;^^' :.| ..'- '

The chairman announced the appointment of the following named members to compose the building committee: Messrs. Gale, Simpson, Robson, Sisson and 5. Rebstock. --. r ^ . -v^- .' - '

Mr. Robson called up the matters in the contract for the construction of the ' annex to the almshouse. He stated that the committee advertised for bids to be . ; opened February i5th, but that they received no bids which they accepted ,-.: . and so advertised again for March i8th, when they obtained a larger number ';.- - of competitors. The committee had contracted with Mr. P. O. Munson of ; .-'; Galesburg, to put up the annex according to = plans and specifications furnished . ' by Mr. I. C. Coleman, architect, using thorough fireproof construction except as ; to the roof, which would be wood covered with slate, the building to be finished in southern pine and all for $24,000; for $24,300 if finished in white oak; for $26,- ' .: 459 if the building is finished inside with white oak and with iron roof con- ' ' struction. This committee desire instruction from the board as to which option - ;- they should accept.

Moved by Mr. Simpson, as a substitute, that the committee be directed to . - accept the $26,459 ^'^ with oak and iron roof construction. .; - ;

Mr. Simpson stated that owing to the necessity for an increase in the facilities ; for the care of the insane the board at the September meeting authorized the almshouse committee to make such temporary arrangements as were best until the January meeting. That at the January meeting it became apparent that more room would be required than the county could provide at once, there being eleven -^ . . patients at Kankakee, which had been ordered to be removed. Accordingly he . visited Peoria county for the purpose of making arrangements for the temporary use of a part of their vacancies in the state hospital for the insane at Jacksonville. The county board of Peoria county being in session at the time gave Knox county permission to use 12 vacancies until such time as we could provide more -..' .

Resolved, That the thanks of this board are due and are hereby tendered to the county board of Peoria county for their courtesy in permitting us to use a portion of their quota of insane at the hospital at Jacksonville. ; July, 1890. - Mr. Robson reported that the contractor was making reasonable progress in the work of constructing the annex to the almshouse. . , . ., , ..

There will yet be expended on the annex to the almshouse about $17,000. If the board is to pursue the same policy in paying for the annex to the almshouse that was adopted in paying for the courthouse, it would seem that a levy of $52,000 would pay for the building and run the county until tax collections are made in the winter of 1892. Some arrangement, however, should be made for the payment of county orders this fall, as the estimates on the building soon to be made will speedily consume what funds are now on hand. | ; - ,

January, 1891. - Wm. Robson, chairman of the building committee, read the following report, and at his request the consideration of the same was made a special order for ii o'clock A. M. tomorrow. To the Honorable Board of Supervisors, ':':-'. -; ; V A.>i; -^-''^v; . vA, .]- ;'

Your committee on building had hoped that they could have reported the completion of the annex to the almshouse at the present meeting. This cannot be done. The contractor says he will finish the building within three weeks. It seems to your committee that the work can be done in that time. We would report the amounts paid to the contractor, Mr. Munson, on the following dates, also the amount of the contract price, and the amount unpaid on said contract and the amount your committee would recommend be allowed said contractor Munson for work done not included in contract:

- committee, Mr. Robson, chairman of said committee, made explanation of the :., extra expense incurred by the contractor in making substantial foundation and : other necessary changes not in contract. Thereupon Mr. Nels Nelson moved that , said committee be authorized to make final settlement with the contractor when -/ the building is completed, and to accept the same. Carried. :. Mr. Rebstock moved thatithe almshouse committee be authorized to procure

- Your committee on building would respectfully report that the annex to ', the almshouse is ready for occupancy and that there has been paid for Mr. I. C.

March Meeting, 1896. - Mr. Robson of the almshouse committee read the fol- '; lowing and moved that the same be adopted as the rules of the almshouse.

; 1. The superintendent shall have complete control over the inmates, but this privilege must be exercised in a humane and consistent manner, resorting to restraint only when necessary to establish and keep a prevailing good order.

^ 2. All patients to be carefully examined on admission, and all moneys and effects of value found in their possession, to be taken by the superintendent and referred to the almshouse committee, who shall direct what disposition shall be made of them. When patients conclude to leave the premises, their persons, packages, trunks, etc., may be searched by the superintendent.

3. All letters to and from the inmates of the institution to pass through the superintendent's hands and if thought necessary, to be examined and treated

5. Patients are forbidden to abuse each other, and whoever wilfully does . so will thereby become a proper subject for the superintendent's interference.

6. Inmates coming to the premises in an intoxicated condition, will be considered vagrants, and may be immediately discharged from the house.

;, 7. Patients who are able shall, when called upon, assist to wait upon the ' sick, and thus render themselves as useful as possible. And if able shall help upon the farm, when needed.

10. Visitors are requested to refrain from talking with insane patients, except relatives; but under no consideration to commit themselves to promises of future favor.

11. It shall be the duty of the physician to carefully scrutinize patients who come under his care; and administer medicines to each as may seem to him best adapted to their needs, and he may consistently prescribe exercises for them for the promotion of their health.

April Meeting, 1898. - Mr. Simpson of the almshouse committee read the following report in relation to the matter of the care of the insane at the almshouse: Mr, Chairman and Gentlemen of the Board of Supervisors: !

Your committee on almshouse and paupers have at different times during the past year called your attention to the crowded condition of the insane department at the almshouse, showing that while it was constructed to care for 40 patients, we have, during the greater part of the year, been caring for from 65 to 67. As to whether insanity is on the increase among us we must leave to those who are able to make that careful and discriminating investigation necessary to determine.

The state has from time to time built new asylums and has frequently increased their capacity by adding new buildings, but has never yet succeeded in keeping up to the demand from increased applicants for admission, notwithstanding the growing sentiment that the state should take care of all insane, those who are a public charge, as well as those who are not. In January, 1890, when it became necessary to build the present annex, the number of Knox county's insane was 79, and were cared for as follows: At Jacksonville, 46; at Kankakee, ii; at almshouse, i8; at jail, 4; we find that at the present time the number of Knox county's insane in public institutions are as follows: At Jacksonville, 56; at Kankakee, 3; at almshouse, 64; making 123 in all. Your committee had hoped, on completion of the new Western hospital for insane, that in the apportionment to be made in connection therewith we would be allowed such increased ratio as would afford us such relief as would enable us, with our present buildings, to care for what we might have until such time as the asylum for the incurable insane at Peoria might be completed. The district for the western hospital has been made, the quota for each county assigned, and the same approved by the governor, and we find that we are allowed accommodation for 9 more patients, i. e., 62 in place of 53, and we

There is but little prospect for the completion of the asylum for the in- - curable insane in less than from 2 to 3 years and we can expect to have but little relief from it when completed. This will leave 64 patients for Knox , county to care for after we obtain the relief afforded by the completion of the Western hospital, which will be some time next month.

The present building for insane, known as the annex to the Knox county almshouse, is occupied by both males and females, the males occupying the basement and first floors; the females occupying the second floor; 14 of the - latter have to be furnished with sleeping room on this floor in the west wing of the men's department of the almshouse proper. In the men's department there is one room with lo beds in it, another with 4, and another with 3. This - is not recognized as the proper way to room this class of patients, unless a '-'' > watchman is within hearing distance all the time at night. ; '

Your committee believes that no time should be lost in making some ad- . ditional provision for the care of this unfortunate class of people in our county. That an addition as nearly fireproof in construction as practicable be built on the east side of the present building and connected therewith by corridors, to be used in caring for the insane women committed to the county's care, and would recommend that a committee be authorized to settle on plans substantially conforming to those shown to the board by your committee; that ^ ^ they be authorized to employ an architect to make complete working plans and prepare proper specifications; to advertise for building contracts; to let contracts, and to proceed with the building as rapidly as it can profitably be done. The cost of said building not to exceed $ ............. -; ^

On motion of Mr. Rebstock the chairman was authorized and directed to Iappoint a committee of five (one of whom shall be the chairman of the board) -.-.'. to carry out the recommendations contained in the foregoing report. ' .

The committee provided for at the last meeting to act as a building committee in the construction of a new building at the almshouse for the use of insane would respectfully report, that they met on April 23 and consulted several architects of the city of Galesburg, and arranged with each of them to submit , plans best suited for the purpose for which the proposed annex was to be built. April 28 your committee met for the purpose of examining the plan.^ ' offered by the different architects and after careful examination selected those prepared by Messrs. Gotschalk & Beadle, as best suited for the proposed annex and entered into an agreement with said Gotschalk & Beadle to make all drawings, details, working plans and specifications, assist in letting contract, act as supervising architect when called upon by the building committee during the construction of said building for the sum of $150, and if the committee desire the further services of an architect in preparing plans for a laundry building, said Gotschalk & Beadle agree to furnish said plans and specifications without further expense to the county. After said plans and specifications had been prepared and approved your committee advertised for bids for the construction of the annex in accordance with said plans and specifications. Said bids were opened June 6, 1898, as follows: . . ...

Your committee entered into contract with said parties for construction oi said annex, they filing a bond in the sum of $5,000 for the faithful completion of said building, said contract and bond being on file with the clerk of the board. \^ - - '' ^.'.'^. '>-'_;:' - ' .'. '/'.-;---. ""/-^ - I'- '-.-.''''. .'

As soon as the work of construction commenced your committee employed Mr. A. C. Phillipson, of Galesburg, as superintendent of material and construction at a salary of $2.00 per day.

Your committee met at the almshouse on July 8th and after insf>ecting the work done and material on hand made their first estimate of cost of work done and material on the grounds. . . . , . t . .

And would ask that the clerk be instructed to issue orders once each month in payment of estimate made by your committee in accordance with the contract made with Messrs. Munson & Tingleaf. . //-T -'>-';..>:'--' - All of which is respectfully submitted. . - ,

On motion of Mr. Becker, the foregoing report was adopted and its recommendations concurred in. ^ . V ; > -.x vi;;^-^ September Meeting, 1898. - Mr. Burkhalter, of the building committee, read the following report:

Your committee on the building of the new annex to the Knox county almshouse would respectfully report that the construction of the building is progressing at about the rate such buildings usually do. Some delay was caused waiting tor iron when the building was ready for the beams for the first floor, and when your committee was in session at the almshouse on the Qth inst. word was received from the yards furnishing the brick for the outside of the walls that they could not furnish any more of the brick contracted for till a new kiln could be made. This of course must cause additional delay, in all other respects the work is progressing very satisfactorily to your committee.

Your committee met at the almshouse on August Qth and made their second estimate of work done and material furnished and on the grounds and found the amount due the contractors at that time to be $1863.24. ' They also met on September gth and made their third monthly estimate and found the amount due the contractors at that time to be $1551.80, and requested the clerk to issue orders in payment of these amounts as authorized to do at the July meeting of the board. At the last meeting of the board your committee reported that we had employed Mr. A. C. Phillipson as superintendent of construction but we neglected to ask that provision be made for payment for his services.

At the meeting of your committee on August Qth and September pth, we gave him an order on the clerk for the amount due him, and the clerk having honored the same we would ask your approval of our action and would ask that the clerk be authorized to issue orders in payment for his services as superintendent of construction once per month on the order of the committee.

Your committee would further report that the steam heating in the old building which was constructed on what is known as the two pipe system has not worked well for some time and should be improved, and knowing that it was necessary to run new mains from the present boiler room to the new building believed it would be economy for the county to have it changed to what is now used and known as the "one pipe system," requested bids for the plumbing and heating in new building, also for changing the piping in old building to that system. Said bids were opened at the almshouse August Qth, 1898, as

Galesburg Plumbing & Heating Co., plumbing and heating in new building using 2OOO feet of radiation therein and changing old building. . . 4,730.00 C. S. Telford, plumbing and heating in new building as per plans and specifications so as to furnish 70 degrees inside when 20 degrees outside, and changing old building 4,827.75

The slight difference between the last two bids caused the sub-committee investigating the matter, considerable anxiety as to which of the bids was really the lowest. A call on the different firms showed that while one was figuring for 2000 feet of radiation, the other was figuring for 2312. Owing to the fact that nearly all the radiation in the new building must be in the halls or corridors, it is evident that something in excess of the usual amount must be used; considerable more than if the radiators could be placed in the rooms. The best information we could find from parties not interested in either firm, assured us that in view of the indirect way of heating, and the amount of windows it was even doubtful if 2312 feet was enough, certainly not any more than was required. Your committee therefore believing Mr. Telford to be the lowest bidder have awarded him the work, and entered into a contract with him for the faithful performance thereof. The contract and bond being placed on file with the county clerk. ..'.^ ^ v . - -

Your committee on the construction of the new annex to the Knox county almshouse, would respectfully report that the construction of the building is making some progress but on account of the inclement and cold weather, and the many difficulties encountered in obtaining suitable brick and other material, specified under the contract, the progress has not been as speedy as your committee has hoped for or expected, but with fair weather the conditions are such now that we may reasonably hope for more speedy progress towards completion of the annex.

On November 29th, 1898, your committee met at the almshouse and made their 5th monthly estimate of materials furnished and work done on the annex, which showed an aggregate of $10,406.99 expended on the building, from which amount your committee have deducted 15 per cent, (as provided for under the contract), viz., $1,561.05, leaving due and payable to the contractors $8,845.94, which amount has under the direction of your committee been paid to the contractors Munson & Tingleaf by county clerk's orders. . :l ::- . --

On September 27th, 1898, your committee met at the almshouse to receive and open proposals for the erection of a laundry building at the almshouse as provided for at the July meeting of the board, at which meeting three bids were received, from F. W. Hawk, D. H. Fink and P. O. Munson, varying materially in amounts or figures. F. W. Hawk being the lowest bidder was awarded the contract for the erection and completion of the laundry building for the sum of $1,600.00 to be paid for on the completion of the building provided the weather and other conditions were such that the building be finished by December loth. 1898. But if, after a proper effort on the part of contractor, the building could not be finished by that date, a payment should be made equal to 75 per cent, of the amount of work done and material furnished on the ground. The first estimate was made December 9th, 1898, and shows the amount of labor and material furnished and on the ground to be $1,114.26, of which your committee retain as provided under the contract, 25 per cent. ($278.56), leaving amount due and payable to the contractor $835.70, for which amount we recommend that county clerk's order be issued to F. W. Hawk for the use of A. M. Parmenter and E. L. Lacey in payment of the first estimate.

.; the contract price for services as architects for the construction of the new annex and the laundry building at the almshouse, your committee would recomm.end that a county order be issued to Gottschalk & Beadle for $75.00. . : ..

On motion of Mr. Becker, the foregoing report was adopted and its recommendations concurred in. - v.;",:,^^ ~ . .- ; / ^,.'::' April Meeting, 1899. - Mr. Simpson of the building committee read the following report in relation to the building of the annex to the almshouse. 'Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen of the Board of Supervisors: i Your building committee would respectfully report that they had hoped that they might have been able to report that the new annex to the almshouse was '- completed or nearly so, but owing to the length of time it has taken the plaster- >- ing to dry, the work of finishing has been greatly delayed. With favorable weather we think it can be completed some time in the coming month. .:;-' . During the process of construction your committee thought it best to sub- ' stitute hollow tile for floor and ceilings and mackolite for partitions in place of expanded metal, which had been contracted for. For making this exchange : the contractor agreed to deduct the sum of $200.00. We would submit the '"- following statement of amounts paid the contractors to the present time, also ^ the contract price: .... . .. . . ..:;.. -: - ..-..-

The following amounts we would recommend be allowed the contractors for extra work done, not called for in the contract, but thought to be necessary by your committee.

' Your committee would also recommend that upon the satisfactory completion of the building they be authorized to accept the same and make a final settlement with Messrs. Munson & Tingleaf, the contractors, and that upon the order of your committee the clerk be authorized to issue an order in payment thereof.

Your committee would further recommend that they be authorized to accept the new laundry building upon its completion, and make final settlement with F. W. Hawk, contractor, and that the clerk be authorized to issue an order in final payment of same on the order of the committee.

Your committee would further report that the specifications for the plumbing for the new building provide for a hot water heater of 40 gallons capacity. Your committee believing this entirely too small, would recommend that they be authorized to arrange with the contractors for one from 175 to 200 gallons.

December Meeting, 1900. - Mr. Gault of the almshouse committee presented a statement in regard to the construction of a cement walk and the recommendation in relation thereto was adopted. , . - '. : ' - 1 ;; ';

Your committee would also report that in accordance with the instructions of the board at its last meeting we have had completed a cement walk leaciing from the almshouse to the road at a cost of 17 cents a foot for 2394 feet, amounting to $406.98 with the contractors' written guarantee attached to their bill reading as follows : "We guarantee this cement walk for the period of 5 years from date, should any defects show up during this period of time which are caused by the action of frost or the elements, or from defective material or workmanship, we agree to replace such walk at our expense." Signed Terry & Lewis,

Whereas, The present water supply at the almshouse is insufficient for the ordinary use of the almshouse, and is totally inadequate for fire protection. Therefore, we would ask that we be authorized to arrange for sufficient supply of water, either by digging new well or by contract with the city of Knoxville, as upon further investigation seems to us best. . .. >: ^ - ^. -."T ."^-f:

"-'-- September Meeting, 1901. - Mr. Gale of the same committee read a special report in relation to the extension of water mains to the almshouse and on his motion the same was adopted and its recommendations concurred in. , , . Mr. Chairman and Gentlemen of the Board of Supcn'isors:

Your committee who were directed to secure from the city of Knoxville, if possible, connection with the city water service so as to aflFord better fire protection, and water service for the almshouse - would report, that they have made with the city of Knoxville, the contract herewith presented, to-wit:

It is hereby agreed by and between the county of Knox, represented by the almshouse committee of the board of supervisors of Knox county and state of Illinois, and the city of Knoxville, a municipal corporation situated in said county and state that the city will extend its present water system so as to give water service to the almshouse in said city of Knoxville: That the city will at once lay a four (4) inch main pipe of standard weight from the end of their present system in front of St. Mary's school in said city to the northwest corner of Douglas and Market streets, there to connect with a pipe to be laid by the county, extending from that point to the almshouse and grounds and connecting with such hydrants in and about the premises as the said committee shall direct and provide. After the completion of such work the city of Knoxville will at all times furnish all water desired by said county for fire protection, house use and other purposes, the same as furnished other water customers and citizens of Knoxville.

For such service the county shall pay to the city quarterly a meter rate for the water used at the rate of two (2) cents per lOO gallons for an amount between looo and 3000 gallons per day, and one and three- fourths (i^) cents per loo gallons for an amount equal to 3000 gallons per day or more.

The county is to furnish a four inch meter and all connections and place same at a suitable place on the line of pipe and all work done on this line shall be under the supervision of the superintendent of water works of the said city. .

-- Also that to carry out this agreement they had plans and specifications for the proposed work made by John McAuley, the city engineer of Galesburg, and advertised for bids for the performance of the work according to such plans.

That upon opening the bids B. O. Krotter was found to be the lowest bidder, and contract entered into with him for such work for the sum of $1,639.30. A copy of said contract together with the bond for its faithful performance and the plans of the proposed work are now on file in the office of the county clerk.

Your committee would also ask that upon the proper certificate of the almshouse committee the county clerk be directed to issue county orders in payment of such amounts as may be found due for work done, according to the terms of such contract. , .-.= -- -v

December Meeting, 1901. - The following mentioned is contained in the report of the almshouse and poor-farm committee presented by Mr. Gale at the December meeting 1901 :

Your committee would also report that the pipe has been laid and connections made with the water works of the city of Knoxville so that the almshouse is now provided with the water service and fire protection we were directed to secure.

YOUR HONORABLE BODY. - Upon receiving information that you were wanting to purchase more land for the benefit and use of the Knox county almshouse, I take pleasure in announcing that the estate of Amos B. Palmer, deceased, is for sale, lying north and west of county farm containing 133^ acres, more or less; 80 acres of which is under cultivation, balance consisting of two pastures, one at the north and one at the south of said 133^ acres, with an abundance of wafer in both, and a never failing well at the house, a good young orchard and other fruit also a good house of 8 rooms, good barn, cribs and sheds, a good new windmill and tank. We can give you immediate possession. Price $11,000. Terms one half cash, balance on two years time, for first mortgage, with interest at the rate of 5^ per cent per annum if desired.

Also that to carry out this agreement they had plans and specifications for the proposed work made by John McAuley, the city engineer of Galesburg, and advertised for bids for the performance of the work according to such plans.

That upon opening the bids B. O. Krotter was found to be the lowest bidder, and contract entered into with him for such work for the sum of $1,639.30. A copy of said contract together with the bond for its faithful performance and the plans of the proposed work are now on file in the oflfice of the county clerk. Your committee would also ask that upon the proper certificate of the almshouse committee the county clerk be directed to issue county orders in payment of such amounts as may be found due for work done, according to the terms of such contract. :, -

O. L. Fay

December Meeting, 1901. - The following mentioned is contained in the report of the almshouse and poor-farm committee presented by Mr. Gale at the December meeting 1901 :

Your committee would also report that the pipe has been laid and connections made with the water works of the city of Knoxville so that the almshouse is now provided with the water service and fire protection we were directed to secure.

YOUR HoxoRAiJLE BODY. - Upon receiving information that you were wanting to purchase more land for the benefit and use of the Knox county almshouse, I take pleasure in announcing that the estate of Amos B. Palmer, deceased, is for sale, lying north and west of county farm containing 133^^ acres, more or less ; 80 acres of which is under cultivation, balance consisting of two pastures, one at the north and one at the south of said 133^^ acres, with an abundance of water in both, and a never failing well at the house, a good young orchard and other fruit also a good house of 8 rooms, good barn, cribs and sheds, a good new windmill and tank. We can give you immediate possession. Price $11, coo. Terms one half cash, balance on two years time, for first mortgage, with interest at the rate of 5^' per cent per annum if desired.

Orlo S. Palmer

In regard to a communication from Orlo S. Palmer, administrator of the estate of Amos B. Palmer offering the Palmer farm of I33>i acres to the county for the sum of $11,000.00, we would respectfully refer to the open board for your consideration.

The proposition of Orlo S. Palmer for the sale of land to Knox county referred to the almshouse committee and referred back to the open board, was, on motion of Mr. Gale, not accepted.

September Meeting, 1904. - Mr. Gale offered the following resolution, which was, on his motion, made a special order of business for Thursday at ii a. m.

Resolved, That the almshouse committee be directed to prepare the south rooms on the lower floor of the west wing of the almshouse for use as a ward for contagious diseases and arrange for the care of all patients brought there suffering from such diseases.

V- And, that after said committee shall have so arranged and shall notify the several supervisors and poor masters of the county that they are prepared to care for such cases; all persons suffering from contagious diseases who shall become county charges shall, whenever possible, be by the several supervisors and poor masters removed to the almshouse for care, and that in such cases the county will not be responsible or pay any bills for aid rendered outside of the almshouse, except the expense of removal to the almshouse, and care of patients before such removal can be made.

Thursday Morning. - The hour having arrived for the special order of business relating to resolution of Mr. Gale, of the almshouse committee offered on Tuesday, Mr. Gale moved the adoption of said resolution whereupon a roll was demanded, which resulted as follows:

December, 1904. - TJie hour having arrived for action on the motion of Mr. Butt of yesterday, which was set for a special order of business for 2 p. m. today, in the matter of rescinding the action of the board at the September meeting in relation to providing certain rooms in the almshouse for the care of patients having contagious diseases, the same was, on motion of Mr. Cowan, laid on the table. .'-:'..--.,..'/'---.' ^^-"^'j.'-":,- .- ^-''-^' - ' -^ ^r -;--?. --V. ...

The committee which were appointed to meet with the city of Galesburg in regard to a pest-house will report that they find that Knox county has paid on smallpox cases for doctor bills, nurses and groceries, approximately the sum of $3,805.66 for the six years ending September, 1906.

And the committee would recommend that the chair appoint a committee of three to meet with a like committee of aldermen of the city of Galesburg to further investigate the advisability of building an isolated hospital for contagious diseases and report to the board at the March meeting before entering into any contract whatsoever. S. McWiLLiAMS.

After some discussion, Mr. Gale moved as an amendment that the chair appoint a committee of three to act with a like number from the city council of the city of Galesburg to make temporary provision for the care of cases of contagious diseases now on hand and that may arise, which amendment was adopted.

Whereupon the chair appointed as said committee of three, Supervisors McWilliams, Gale and Butt. Mr. Gale stated that he would be unable to serve on said committee, whereupon the chair substituted Supervisor Farwell in his stead.

March Meeting, 1907. - Mr. Butt of the special committee appointed at the December meeting of the board read the following report, and on motion of Mr. Davison the same was adopted :

GENTLEMEN : - Your committee of three, which was appointed at the December meeting to meet with a like number from the city council of the city of Galesburg, to make temporary provision for the care of cases of contagious diseases that were then on hand, and that might arise, would beg leave to make the following report: :,/:.' ' ';:. r ' -v's':'-^^^.v --';:.,----:..-.:"-.':--->. ^- --'-'''''-': :-::- IrlJ:'-^- ''''-

The committee representing the board of supervisors, with a like committee representing the city council, met on January pth, 1907. Present - Dr. Maley S. McWilliams. Henry Hawkinson, O. J. Johnson and H. J. Butt, and Robert Farwell, together with Dr. Hall of the board of health, and H. J. Butt, secretary. The matter of a temporary pesthouse or detention hospital were fully discussed and recommendations were offered by the doctors present. The committee adjourned until afternoon, when a meeting was again held, and the representatives of the city council that had conferred with the city board of health, and had concluded that in as much as there was an emergency existing, a temporary pesthouse should at once be secured. Dr. Hall of the board of health reported that the board of health had rented the house owned by Mr. Gray on the corner of Academy and Main streets.

- Upon motion. Dr. Maley, representing the city council, and H. J. Butt, representing the board of supervisors, were appointed a committee to furnish the house as quickly as possible. The house was furnished as quickly and as cheaply as could possibly be done, and on the lOth day of January it was ready for occupancy. .:. --xC ' '-' ' - . ; -'; ^^--^' --'_r ; v- : v| : .---.-;S -

On the nth day of January, this committee and all the board of health and officers of the city of Galesburg were served with injunction to not further use the house rented by the board of health for a pesthouse. Dr. Hall reported that there was one case already in the house when the injunction was served. The injunction suit was finally tried and the temporary injunction was made permanent.

Your committee - Messrs. McWilliams, Farwell and Butt, met immediately after the injunction proceedings were finished, and concluded unanimously that so far as the county committee was concerned, they would take no further part in any further attempt to establish a temporary pesthouse in the city of Galesburg.

This committee would recommend to your honorable body that the county purchase a piece of land outside of the city limits of the city of Galesburg and

September Meeting, 1907. - Mr. McDowell offered a motion that the alms- -- house committee be authorized to purchase additional land for the almshouse and poor- farm at a cost of not to exceed the amount of $5,000.00. .. -. ; - - -- <C

Thereupon the chair declared that as a two-thirds majority of all the mem- .^ '; bers of the county board had voted in the affirmative, the motion was carried. ;

Resolved, That the county clerk be directed to issue orders at the rate of seventy-five dollars ($75.00) per month for the ensuing year payable to the order of the Knox County Kindergarten Association of Galesburg, Illinois, upon the same condition as to the care of children who are, or may become, county charges .. as are now required by the rules of this board. 7 ,

September Meeting, 1908. - Mr. McWilliams of the almshouse committee presented the following report, which, on his motion, was made a special order of business for Thursday at 1 130 p. m. ^ '.-:'

GENTLEMEN: - Your committee which were authorized by the motion of Supervisor Butt at the June meeting of this board to investigate the matter of lighting the Knox county almshouse and buildings, beg leave to submit the following . report: /v :

That your committee met at the court house in Galesburg on August 4th, ' ; -^ 1908, and found that in order to get at the matter of investigation of a lighting >V. system for the above-named buildings that it was necessary to have a blueprint v; ' made of the same; whereupon your committee contracted with Architect J. Grant Beadle to make the same at a cost of $50.00, and upon the receipt of the same we proceeded to advertise for bids for the wiring for electricity and the piping for gas of the said buildings, as per specifications, and received the following bids ' for piping said buildings for gas : ; . - :.v /v / v.:^ -;. . . : . ;:.:--^_.;;

Bid Of C. S. Telford Company

"We hereby offer and agree to do the gas fitting in the Knox county aimshouse, in Knoxville, Illinois, furnishing all pipe, fittings and labor in accordance to the plans and specifications furnished by J. Grant Beadle, architect, for the

"We the undersigned, will agree to furnish all material and labor for wiring the Knox county almshouse, and all of the outbuildings for electric lights as per your specifications, except the chandeliers, which were not specified what kind they should be, but will furnish all wire, sockets and labor for wiring and hanging such fixtures as you may choose, for the sum of $1,531.00.

"We also agree to furnish one switch or feeder panel board to be blue Vermont marble, i^ inches thick, 30 by 48 inches, complete with all switches and fuse, for the additional sum of $130.00. ,;;-.. . | :

"We, the undersigned, will agree to furnish electric current for lighting the Knox county almshouse at Knoxville at the following price : The first 250 kilowatts consumed each month, lo cents per kilowatt; the second 250 kilowatts. 9 cents per kilowatt. All above 500 kilowatts consumed each month, up to i,ooo kilowatts, 8 cents per kilowatt; all above i.ooo kilowatts consumed each month, 7 cents per kilowatt; we to furnish all poles, wire and other material. Also all transformers, meters, and deliver the current on board in building, free of cost to you." ' -.';;"-''..-' . '--. - r-.- ..' -v -/.^ . .[ '-^.''.-^.

Your committee herewith also present the bids of the Arthur Frantzeen Company, McFell Electric Company and the Macomb Electric Construction Company, which we recommend be filed.

Your committee would respectfully recommend that the matter of lighting the almshouse and buildings be referred to the open board for final decision. |; >

The hour set for the special order of business relative to the matter of the piping and wiring of the Knox county almshouse at Knoxville, on motion, the report of the almshouse committee, presented to the board on Tuesday morning, was again read.

After some discussion Mr. Barlow moved that the almshouse committee be instructed to investigate the different lighting systems, and they be authorized to install such a system of lighting at the almshouse as the committee deemed advisable and most economical for the county, which motion carried.

pauper claims, read the following special report in relation to wiring and piping of the almshouse for lighting, which, on his motion, was adopted and its recommendations concurred in: : v,. : .v.i -: To the Honorable Board of Supervisors of Knox County, Illinois:

Your committee on almshouse and poor-farm would respectfully present the following report on the matter of wiring the almshouse for lighting by electricity and piping the same for gas, in accordance with the meeting of the board of supervisors :

Your committee met at the Knox county court house in Galesburg on Thursday, September 17, 1908, to advertise for bids for wiring and piping the aimshouse for light purposes according to plans and specifications on file in the county clerk's office.

Upon motion made by Mr. Geer and seconded by Mr. Baird, Mr. Spenny and Mr. Cooke were empowered to oversee work in regard to repairing and setting old boiler taken out of laundry at almshouse and to be used for heating purposes at almshouse. Motion carried.

Upon motion made by Mr. Geer and seconded by Mr. Baird, the Knoxville Electric Light and Power Company were allowed the contract for wiring the almshouse for the sum of $1,200.00, according to plans and specifications by J. Grant Beadle, architect, now on file in the county clerk's office. Also that said Knoxville Electric Light and Power Company be allowed the sum of $125 for one Vermont marble switchboard, 24x60 inches, ij4 inches thicfc, all wired up complete. Motion carried; bond of $i,ooo to accompany the contract.

It was further agreed to enter into contract with said Knoxville Electric Light and Power Company to furnish light at almshouse for two years from January i, 1909, for the sum of 7^/2 cents per kilowatt. - '.- . -

The bid of C. S. Telford for piping almshouse for gas according to plans and specifications furnished by J. Grant Beadle, architect, now on file in county clerk's office, for $465, was accepted and contract entered into, a bond of $300 being attached to contract.

We would recommend that the clerk be directed to issue a county order to J. Grant Beadle, for $55, for making plans and specifications for wiring and piping the almshouse and buildings, in accordance with contract with him as heretofore reported by your committee to this board.

September, 1909. - On motion of Mr. McWilliams, the board granted the privilege of the floor to Dr. C. B. Ripley, who addressed the board on the subject of establishing a county sanitarium for the treatment of tuberculosis.

December, 1909. - The following special report of the almshouse corhmittee, together with contract, order to county clerk and statements relative to purchase of the Nicholas Peterson farm were read : To the Honorable Board of Supervisors of Kno.r County, Illinois: -: i :) : ' ;

Your committee authorized at the September meeting of the board of supervisors of Knox county to purchase additional land for the almshouse and poorfarm, beg leave to submit the following report :

That on October 23, 1909, your committee purchased from C. W. Morris his interest in what is known as the Nicholas Peterson farm, he holding a contract for the same, agreeing to pay therefore $19,925, and for which said interest of said C. W. Morris in said contract, we paid by county clerk's order $3,800, leaving due on said contract sums due as follows, to-wit:

Your committee would recommend that they be granted authority to make such arrangements as are necessary for meeting the further terms of the contract, and to direct the county clerk to issue clerk's orders in payment thereof. Said land described as follows: Situate in the county of Knox and state of Illinois, known and described as lots one (i) and five (5) (according to the plat on page 366 of Volume 44, Knox County Deed Records) of the southeast quarter of section twenty (20), and also the southeast quarter of the northeast quarter of said section twenty (20), all of said lands situated in township eleven (ii) north, range two (2) east of the fourth principal meridian. ;-...:,-- .| '

GENTLEMEN: - At a meeting held on Tuesday evening, June 8, 1911, the undersigned discussed the question of the feasibility of a tent colony for the treatment of those in this county afflicted with tuberculosis, and it was the unanimous sentiment that the time had come for a positive step in this direction and that your honorable body is best situated to take the initial steps, in view of the fact that the county has already purchased the land needed for that purpose. It was generally understood at the time of the acquisition that ultimately the county would establish such a tent colony or sanitarium there for the accommodation of the people of this county. Since the procuring of the land there have been many deaths in the county from consumption, and there are now within its confines many such with the disease. It seems only the part of mercy that all such be afforded the modern facilities for treatment close at home. It was the unanimous opinion of those of us who are physicians that the tent colony offers the best method of stamping out the disease. As taxpayer^ and citizens we ask your respectful consideration of the subject, and also that you assist insofar as your honorable body can in the dissemination of information among the homes of the county regarding the disease to the end that its ravages may be mitigated. All of which, with the accompanying petitions, is respectfully submitted. .''''.^' !

E. R. Drake, Fred R. Jelliff

We, the undersigned, being firmly convinced that the time has come when this county should provide suitable equipment for the stamping out of tuberculosis in our midst, and thereby saving to the community hundreds of useful lives ; and believing that further delay is unjustifiable, do hereby respectfully petition the honorable board of supervisors of Knox county to take immediate steps toward equipping a tent colony on the land recently purchased by the board \ for that purpose. . ;;. :r .:/ : v;^.:: :.

Dr. Sargent then stated that Dr. Cox and others of the Medical Society -. of the City of Galesburg and Knox county were present and he requested that they be permitted to address the board. Whereupon he introduced Dr. Cox, -^ who stated that he was representing the Medical Society of the City of Galesburg, and came before them to urge the necessity and importance of the establishment ; of a sanitarium for the care and treatment of persons afflicted with tuberculosis, and suggested the appointment of a committee of the members of the board of -'- supervisors to investigate the question and give it thorough consideration, with the object of establishing such a sanitarium on a broad basis so that all classes could and would avail themselves of the advantages thereof. . j' :

Dr. William O'R. Bradley also addressed the board, and he urged the co-operation of the board of supervisors with the medical societies of the city of Galesburg and Knox county in establishing and putting in order and thoroughly equipping a sanitarium for the treatment of tuberculosis. ' . '. :

Dr. G. A. Longbrake also appeared and emphasized the importance of isolation of tubercular patients for their own benefit and for the prevention of the spread of the disease among persons not affected by it.

Dr. Ryan also spoke to the board and emphasized the importance of the estab-';> ' lishment of a sanitarium for the treatment of tuberculosis. .:, ..-...:;

Dr. Ripley stated that he appeared as the representative of the County Medical Society, and the County Society joined with the City Medical Society in urg- '-:- ing the importance of the matter of the establishment of a sanitarium for the proper treatment of tuberculosis. , : .- . ^

Mr. Greig here stated to the board that personally he realized .the need of the proper care and treatment of tubercular subjects and the great importance of the '^ matter; but that if the sanitarium mentioned in the discussion before the board would be solely for the accommodation of patients from Knox county, he questioned whether the community was large enough to warrant the great expense necessary to establish and properly equip and maintain a sanitarium, and he expressed his belief that the time would come when the treatment and care of tubercular cases would be carried on in like manner by the state as the insane patients are now cared for, and in such a case the large outlay by counties for the purpose would be useless.

Dr, Sargent then offered a motion that a special committee of five members of the board be appointed by the chairman, with instructions to confer with the medical societies of the city of Galesburg and Knox county and make some definite recommendations as to the propriety of establishing a colony or sanitarium for the care and treatment of tuberculosis, and report the results of their con- ' siderations to the next September meeting of the county board, which motion prevailed.

Mr. Deatherage then offered a motion that the special committee be appointed for the consideration of the tubercular colony and sanitarium matter, be given authority to visit sanitaria in other places and investigate the methods and expense of conducting such places and make a full report of same to the board, and the county to pay the expense of the committee in making such investigations, which motion prevailed.

September, 1911. - The chair announced that the hour had arrived which was set for a special order of business, and offered the representatives of the Knox County and Galesburg Medical Societies that were present the privilege of addressing the board.

Whereupon Dr. Cox appeared and discussed the estimated cost of establishment and maintenance of a sanitarium for the treatment of tuberculosis for Knox county, as based upon reports on like institutions in the state of New York and other eastern states.

Mr. Minnich, secretary of the Illinois association for the prevention of Tuberculosis also spoke briefly along the same lines and of the purpose and value of such as institution. . - .,

Your committee, to whom was referred the matter pertaining to the establishment of a tuberculosis sanitarium, would respectfully report to your honorable board, that they met on Aug. pth at the court house, at which time a number of the physicians were present and their arguments were heard, and we are presenting herewith a folder presented by the physicians as their final argument in favor of the establishment of a county sanitarium.

From the statement made by the physicians we have their estimate that there are approximately 234 people in Knox county affected with tuberculosis. We have the statement of the physicians that in 1909 there were in Knox county 297 deaths, from all causes, and 50 of these were from tuberculosis. We find from the records that during the year from Nov., 1909, to Nov., 1910, there were 28 deaths reported as caused from tuberculosis and 8 more from some form of tuberculosis other than pulmonary tuberculosis. From this information it would seem, that if a tubercular sanitarium were to be established, that it should have a capacity of from 50 to 60 patients.

the establishing of a proper tubercular sanitarium, your committee visited the Edward sanitarium, at Naperville, 111. This is an institution for the treatment of incipient pulmonary tuberculosis, and only patients in the early stages of pulmonary tuberculosis are admitted.

; This institution has a permanent service building, with dining room, kitchen, laundry and accommodations for the employees. It also has a medical building, including office, medical facilities, laboratory, infirmary and rooms for the medical and nursing stafl. The service building was a gift, and represents an expenditure of approximately $12,000. The medical building was built at a cost of $21,435. This cost does not include the installation of a laboratory, such as seems to be necessary for an institution of this kind, and which would cost approximately $4,000, this being the cost of the laboratory at Ottawa. This institution has also 4 open air shacks with a capacity of 36 beds. These shacks cost approximately $i,ioo each. There are also 5 tents, having a capacity of lo beds, which cost about $125.00 each. This gives a capacity of 46 patients in the shacks and tents, the balance being provided for in the medical building. There are also in this institution, two day resting shacks, representing a cost of a little over $500 or a total investment of approximately $42,500. : . This institution shows a total operating expense, outside of improvements to buildings and grounds and furniture and furnishings, of approximately $21,600 per year. The per capita expense at this place is approximately $10.00 per patient per week. It will also be noted that these patients are expected to do considerable towards their own care, in the way of taking care of their accommodations, such as care of sleeping quarters, etc. ; ;;.

Your committee also visited the colony at Ottawa, 111., and found there an institution with a capacity of about 60 patients. This institution has an administration building, containing the dining room, offices, and accommodations for the employees, together with heating plant and kitchen, which represents a cost of approximately $25.000. There is a bath house costing $4500 and an annex or shack, containing the laboratory and sleeping apartments for 5 or 6 patients. At this institution the patients are principally kept in tents, each patient having an individual tent. About half of the tents in this institution are permanent affairs and cost about $250.00 each, and the other are temporary tents and cost about $215.00 each. The total investment here represents approximately $48,000.00.

At this institution, not only the incipient cases are admitted but also the more advanced, although the latter are not desired. The annual cost of maintaining this institution was not obtainable although we were advised by the superintendent that the pay roll was about $2000 per month, and judging from the records of the Edward Sanitarium at Naperville, your committee is inclined to the belief that this represents about one-half of the actual cost of

The cost of construction given herein for the two institutions does not include the cost of real estate or the installation of the proper water service, nor the drainage or sewerage proposition.

, ;. Both of the institutions mentioned, cater principally to the patients who are able to pay their way, more especially the colony at Ottawa. The colony at Naperville received contributions from outside sources which enables them to provide for a number of free patients. Their statement from 1907 to 1911, shows that 40 per cent of the patients were pay patients, 51 per cent were free patients maintained by private subscriptions and from other sources, and 9 per cent were semi free, or in other words, assisted in part by various organizations and individuals.

The costs enumerated herein, are for the care of the incipient cases. It would appear that this cost would necessarily be insufficient where the care of advanced cases are to be undertaken.

Your committee is very firmly of the belief, that if Knox county is to undertake the establishment of a tuberculosis sanitarium that it should, most emphatically, provide for the care of the advanced cases, although there is no way by which these apparently dangerous cases may be compelled to submit to treatment or even to the sanitarium, except in the most advanced cases, coming from the homes where the illness causes dependency. These cases have been, and are now being received at the almshouse and cared for in a very satisfactory manner. -:-- ;.;-.:-.;.-- y/ ----;.;'-':;,-, ''^ .';!.''-. -"v^'-'i':', --.-/'-'"'

Your committee is further of the opinion that should this honorable board see fit, at this time, to establish a county sanitarium for the care and treatment of tuberculosis, that a reasonable sanitarium could be established at a cost of approximately $25,000. '-' - - :;;v>- ,;--.'-;.;- V;;;^^-! .:-.

The fact that the present tax levy is practically up to the limit allowed by law, would make it necessary that this amount be provided by a bond issue of the county for this purpose.

Your committee further believes that a great deal of good might be done along this line by education and would recommend that the matter be taken up with the county superintendent of schools in order that the results obtained from proper care in cases of tuberculosis might be taught in the public schools of the county. '--.-'-:!-' " --\\ ---..'- :: v'- . E. P. RoBsoN, -t -.;-:"'.

GENTLEMEN : - In this final argument in favor of the establishment of a county sanitarium for the treatment of tubercular patients, it is not our intention or desire to wear out the patience of this honorable body. We wish to present simply the salient points touching upon the cause of the disease, its universal dissemination, false ideas about its propagation and spread, its social side and its financial aspect, its prevention and lastly its care and cure, so that you will have a firm basis of fact for your action.

The disease was named phthisis or consumption by the Greeks because of [ its wasting action. Hippocrates, the Greak physician, who lived twenty centuries ago, gives an accurate description of the disease, which does not vary much from what we see today. The disease has spread so that today it is found in every clime and among all people. Its virulence varies with the physical development of the people, their racial history and their environment and social habits. Some people are unusually susceptible to the disease, notable the negroes, and mulattoes and the Indians, especially half breeds. People who have lived an outdoor life for generations and are then housed by civilization are very prone to it and whole tribes have been "literally wiped off the face of the earth" when they have been educated to clothes and foul smelling hut.

The real nature of the disease was not known until 1882 when Koch, the great German scientist, discovered the germ, and by cultivation and inoculation proved it to be the cause of the disease. Prior to this time it was supposed to be hereditary and when a person was attacked all hope was gone and little was done in the way of prevention or cure.

The disease is caused by the bacillus tuberculosis, a small germ which has to be magnified 800 or i,ooo times and colored before it can be detected. It is hardy and tenacious of life. When expectorated and allowed to lodge in a warm, damp place, it will live two months.

Heating to a temperature of 145 degrees will not kill it. If, however, it is exposed to the air and sunlight for two days it will be destroyed. Sunlight and fresh air sounds the death knell of tuberculosis. The germs have never been discovered in the blood nor is there an authentic instance where the disease has been transmitted from the mother to the unborn child.

It is mildly contagious, if at all. It is transmitted in two ways usually - by inhalation and by means of the food. Sixty-four per cent occurs by inhaling the dried sputum and 20 per cent by ingesting the germs. There may be other ways but they are not fully proven, possibly by inoculation. The infection occurs by means of the dried sputum, which is carried about by the air and inhaled, or by drops of mucous which may be expectorated on the pillow or sheets and some one lies on them and becomes infected. The tonsil is an excellent resting place for the germ until it matures and develops.

It is quite well established that children are infected by tuberculosis cow's milk. That fact that nearly all children who have tuberculosis have the glands of the bowel and its covering infected, would seem to prove this conclusively.

Years ago when it was the common belief that the disease was hereditary and, therefore, inevitable in a family, it was no uncommon thing to see a sick patient cover the floor with foul expectoration which was allowed to dry and was wafted by the wind to all parts of the neighborhood, infecting not only the family, but every one in the vicinity. Domestic animals have often been thus infected.