A mission to strengthen children and families was born in 1886 when Catherine Burnham, wife of Frederick G. Burnham, convinced her husband that raising children would be a better use of their 580 acres in Canaan, New York, than raising cattle. It was then that the Burnham’s created a refuge for what were then called “wayward boys.” The idea that the Farm represented a family, rather than an institution, was a major factor in its success and its powerful influence on the boys’ lives.

The Burnham Family’s vision and personal commitment to making a difference in children’s lives led to what is known today as Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth, one of New York State’s largest and most impactful child welfare agencies serving over 2,000 children and families every day.

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Strengthening these children and families so they can live safely, independently and productively within their home community is our life’s mission.

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All available records for the period of 1886-present are held at the New York State Archives located in Albany, NY.

You can access these records HERE.