The orphanage originated in Dallas when women of First Presbyterian Church arranged care for four children of a deceased member. The church then decided to found a statewide orphanage, for which the D.S. Files family gave this land. The home opened in 1906 with Rev. J.D. McLean as its first president. From the beginning, the home used the modern Cottage Plan and maintained a reputation for its outstanding staff, facilities, and program. The home's school closed in 1957, and the orphanage is now part of the Presbyterian Children's Home and Service Agency.