In the mid-1700s, the first settlers to explore this area discovered nine springs whose waters contained healthful minerals, with the largest of the springs containing barium…the “barium springs”. A company called The Great Human Repair Shop was formed and shipped water from the springs throughout America, England and Ireland. To accommodate patients who visited the springs, a 30-room hotel was built. The area and the business it created boomed until the end of World War I when the land was sold to Davidson College and then to the Presbyterian Synod

In 1883, two Presbyterian women in Charlotte founded the Presbyterian Orphans Home. As needs grew and space did not, the Presbyterian Synod purchased the land that was the site of the legendary, healing "Barium Springs", and the Orphans Home became known as the Barium Springs Home for Children

Over the years, the campus grew with cottages, an infirmary and a school. Until the 1950's, children coming to Barium Springs were mostly orphans who would stay for long periods of time. Many came as infants and stayed until graduation from high school or college.  In the 1950's, needs for an orphanage decreased. Instead, children needing care had one or both parents still living; but suffered from abuse and neglect. Not only did these children need a place of refuge, but they also required treatment and therapy.

To meet the needs of North Carolina’s children today, Barium Springs Home for Children has evolved and provides a wide array of services, among them - a caring place to live for abused or neglected children, early childhood development for low income families, counseling services and foster family programs.  By teaching them, keeping them safe, and above all - by loving them, these hurting children are shown that there is promise for a bright future.

The Christmas season can be a very stressful time for the children and families served. This stress has been greatly intensified by the current economic environment.  We need ample resources for these families in need and to know that none of our children will go without Christmas gifts.  We are calling on you to sponsor a child’s Christmas or donate new toys and/or gift cards to support these needs.  If you wish, you can make a financial donation online.

Please visit www.bariumsprings.org or call Gloria Wright at 704-872-4157 to find out how you can help our children and families this Christmas season.