The Baptist Missionary Association of Texas met to discuss the plight of orphan children in Texas. The decision was made that an orphanage was a necessity. A committee was chosen to secure a location. The city of Waxahachie donated $1,500.00 and was chosen as the location for Texas Baptist Orphanage.

This childcare facility opened its doors in January 1910, shortly after receiving its license from the State of Texas.

After a few years, a two-story brick building with 19 furnished bedrooms was officially opened. At the time, 19 orphans called it home.

January
Through heavy fundraising efforts, the second wing of the orphanage was completed.

Spring
There were 62 children living at the orphanage.

Summer
By summer, the number had grown to 83 children.

Waxahachie residents came together to make much-needed repairs to the main building. They donated $1,800, and many brought tools and supplies to help complete the work themselves.
The rest of the 1940s were a time of stability and growth for the orphanage. The children and staff even raised additional funds by working in the fields and selling produce.
By 1947, enough funds had been raised to build a new dormitory for the boys.

In the mid to late 1950s, the definition of “orphan” shifted. Most of the children in care were no longer true orphans but were classified as dependent or neglected, with one or both parents still living. During this time, several smaller, more home-like cottages were built to create a family-style environment, moving away from the traditional institutional model.

This decade brought significant changes in the way TBHC cared for children. In 1974, Child Protective Services (CPS) was established and became more involved in how children in care were supported. Many of the children entering care during this time had experienced abuse or were dealing with psychological challenges. The traditional dormitory-style orphanage was no longer able to meet their needs.

1984
TBHC applied for its Child Placing License.
1985
TBHC received its first two foster care placements.
1989
There were 17 foster care placements and 53 private placements. TBHC also began offering crisis pregnancy counseling.

TBHC’s adoption program began through a partnership with the state.

In 2009, an office was opened in Bedford to continue to address the needs of children and families in the area. We work with OCOK in this area to help children remain in the county they are removed.

In 2018, an office was opened in Garland to continue to address the needs of children and families.