In the early 19th century, a reform housing colony for the poor and homeless was established in Veenhuizen by the Society of Benevolence. In the late 19th century, the complex was turned into a penal colony.
In the early 19th century, a welfare settlement was set up in Veenhuizen by the Society of Benevolence. In contrast, by the late 19th century, it became a correctional facility.