Behind Closed Doors: Hidden Histories of Children Committed to Care in the Late Nineteenth Century (1882-1899)

In the nineteenth century, children who were removed from their families by the state were criminalized and incarcerated in industrial schools. Annie Skinner's book explores the challenges and obstacles these children faced, such as navigating the tough regimes of the institutions and resisting authority. The author shows how attitudes towards children in care were dominated by the belief that removing contact with their parents was essential to avoid repeating a negative history. Skinner positions the voice of the child at the forefront of her study by offering close readings of children's letters, taken from source, to show the impact of such policies on their lives and their isolation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 254 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2021
Publisher: Peter Lang International Academic Publishers

Annie Skinner delves into the intricate challenges and formidable obstacles encountered by children who were forcibly separated from their families in the nineteenth century. These children, rescued from neglectful, abusive, or perilous circumstances, found themselves committed to care, yet tragically subjected to criminalization and incarceration in industrial schools until they reached the age of sixteen. Through a meticulous examination of letters exchanged between the children, their parents, and the authorities, the author sheds light on the harrowing

experiences of these children during their removal. We gain a firsthand account of how these children, raised in controlled environments, developed resilience and learned to navigate the strict regimes of the institutions, often challenging authority institutions' authority. The author highlights the prevailing belief that severing contact with their parents was crucial in preventing the repetition of negative histories. Consequently, a new life was envisioned, aimed at fostering healthy and secure social development. At the core of this new life was a future in domestic service, offering opportunities for these children to find purpose and stability. However, they also faced discrimination and stigma from employers and authorities, further exacerbating their isolation and longing for identity.

Skinner prioritizes the child's voice at the forefront of her study by conducting close readings of the children's letters, sourced directly from their original writings. This approach allows us to witness the profound impact of such policies on their lives, as well as the profound isolation they experienced due to their removal and their relentless quest for self-discovery.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789973730
Edition number: New ed