Could you mail a child in 1913
What an interesting question!
In 1913, it was not possible to mail a child in the classical sense, as it would be illegal and unethical to treat a human being like a package. However, I can provide some context and insights on how children were transported and relocated during that time period.
In the early 20th century, children were often moved between families, foster homes, or orphanages through various means, including:
- Train travel: Children were often transported by train, either with their families or in the care of a chaperone or social worker. This was a common method for moving children across long distances.
- Horse-drawn carriages or wagons: In rural areas or for shorter distances, children might be transported by horse-drawn carriages or wagons.
- Automobiles: As automobiles became more widespread, they began to be used for transporting children, especially for shorter distances.
- Steamships: For international relocations, children might travel by steamship, often accompanied by a chaperone or guardian.
However, these methods were not equivalent to mailing a package. Children were treated with dignity and respect, and their transportation was often accompanied by formal arrangements, such as court orders or official documents.
In the United States, for example, the Orphan Train Movement (1854-1929) saw thousands of children relocated from urban areas to rural areas, often through formal adoption processes. While this movement was controversial and has been criticized for its treatment of children, it was not equivalent to mailing a child.
In summary, while children were transported and relocated during the early 20th century, it was not possible to "mail" a child in the same way that packages are sent through the postal service.