Illinois Humane Society records, 1889-1959

Old Resource ID was IHS

The Illinois Humane Society, formerly the Illinois Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, was established in 1869 to provide protective services for abused animals. Since cruel and inhumane treatment of animals was especially prevalent in the Union Stock Yards throughout the state, the Society petitioned the Illinois legislature for legal recognition as a state policing agency. The Illinois Humane Society, as a policing agency, then established affiliated branches and appointed special agents to areas where branches did not exist. However, the central headquarters was located in Chicago. In addition, the agency lobbied for laws which would curb animal abuses.

Since no other non-sectarian agency was responsible for child welfare, in 1879 the Illinois Humane Society extended its protective services to neglected, abused, and abandoned children. The organization was successful in securing child welfare legislation which ultimately culminated in the establishment of the first Juvenile Court in Chicago in 1899.

In addition, the Illinois Humane Society started an ambulance service for disabled animals; erected street drinking fountains for the relief of animals; organized a humane education program entitled Bands of Mercy for Children; published the Humane Advocate; and gave lectures on the humane activities of the organization. The society not only helped people in other states organize humane societies, but it also founded the American Humane Association in 1877.

The Illinois Humane Society was a charitable organization whose income come from an endowment fund, membership fees and dues, and contributions. In 1969 the Society became associated with the Chicago Commons and now directs its funds to other humane groups.

The collection contains correspondence, clippings, reports, programs, minutes, proceedings, case records, journals, speeches, photographs and pamphlets. The material deals primarily with child and family welfare and with animal rights. Case records of children less than 80 years old are restricted.

Case records in Series I less than 80 years old are restricted.

Illinois Humane Society records, Special Collections and University Archives, University of Illinois at Chicago

• NamesIllinois Humane Society. -- Archives
• Subject
  • Animal welfare.
  • Chicago Community Organizations.
  • Chicago Political and Civic Life.
  • Child welfare.
  • Family services.
• Geographic Coverage
  • Illinois--Chicago.
  • Illinois.