Up First from NPR
The Girls Who Were Sent Away
Apr 20, 2025
Grady Hendrix, an acclaimed horror writer known for his thought-provoking novels, dives deep into the chilling world of maternity homes before Roe v. Wade. He discusses how the oppressive environment of these homes shaped young girls' lives, revealing their struggles and eventual empowerment through witchcraft. The conversation also tackles the societal stigma around unwed motherhood and the haunting narratives that surround their choices. Hendrix connects these historical truths to modern issues, proving that horror can be a powerful form of social commentary.
20:10
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Quick takeaways
- The historical context of the baby scoop era illustrates how societal pressures forced unmarried women into secrecy and shame regarding their pregnancies.
- The exploration of witchcraft by the young women symbolizes their quest for empowerment and autonomy in response to their oppressive situations.
Deep dives
The Baby Scoop Era Overview
The podcast discusses the historical context of the baby boom following World War II, highlighting the phenomenon known as the 'baby scoop era.' During this period, many unmarried women and girls were compelled to give birth and place their babies for adoption, largely due to the illegality of abortion. From 1943 to 1973, women faced immense societal pressure and stigma, often being sent to secretive maternity homes where they lost all agency over their pregnancies. This hidden history reflects not only the struggles of these women but also the broader societal attitudes toward unwed mothers during that time.
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