History

Happy Haven began as a dream in the minds of Christian people at the Willow Avenue Church of Christ in 1964-1965. The home began as an orphanage on the current property, then known as the County Poor House property.

During the planning stage, the major obstacle was the securing of facilities to implement such a program. The old Putnam County Farm property, which had been abandoned since 1961, was mentioned as a possibility. This property included a 35-room brick structure and 71 acres of land.

In April 1965, the Putnam County court voted to lease this property to Willow Avenue for 30 years with an option for 30 additional years at $1 per year. Later, this was changed to a 99-year lease. In February 1972, the Board of Directors made the decision to begin construction of a new group home. Eight months later, the land was cleared and construction began. The Abston House was built in 1974.

The Gainesboro House, constructed with funds donated by the Gainesboro congregation, was occupied in December 1977. The Richmond Chapel-Nevins House was built in June 1978 with money donated by Richmond Chapel Church of Christ in memory of Elizabeth Boatman Nevins.