The Charless Home was founded in 1853 by Mrs. Charlotte Taylor Blow Charless as a memorial to her friend and housekeeper, Rachel Adams, who died alone and in poverty on the County Farm. Mrs. Charless was so moved by the circumstances of “Aunt Rachel’s” death that she determined to provide a home to serve the needs of women who were alone and afflicted.

With the support of dedicated friends, Mrs. Charless was able to purchase the limestone building and eight acres of orchards and gardens, and “The Home of the Friendless” opened its door within a year of Rachel Adams’ death.

The home has grown and changed much as the city has over the years. The first infirmary was built in 1856; a new one was completed in 1981. The non-denominational chapel was completed in 1963 to serve residents of different faiths and offer a respite from daily activity. Today, renamed for its foundress, The Charless Home is an assisted living residence for women and men with 78 permanent staff and 100 residents in several levels of care.

The service, concern, and loyalty that characterized Mrs. Charless’ memorial to her friend has created a real home for the women and men of St. Louis for over 150 years.