In the early part of the 20th century, there were many stories of the mistreatment of children at orphanages all over the United States and also throughout the world. It was a time when children from low income families and other situations were forced into children's homes in many cities and towns. For the most part, they were forgotten by much of society as many people had an idea of what was going on in these places but simply didn't want to think about it. And the laws were very lax about the treatment given to these young ones be it, good or bad.