File:Antwerpen Maagdenhuis baby hatch (reconstruction) 2711.jpg

English: A replica of a baby hatch. The original one was at the Foundlings’ House, founded in 1532, in the St. Rochus Street. When about 10 years of age they would move to the Maagdenhuis (for girls, boys went to the Knechtjeshuis). The hatch was installed in 1812 when the French regime tried to organize things somewhat. It functioned until 1860. During the first two years 414 children were put in. A bell would signal their arrival, warm milk and dressings were at hand. Notes were taken of the child's condition, it was given a name. In the chapel one can see halves of playing cards, as it was not unusual that the mother kept another half, using it as proof when reclaiming a kid when things had improved (the last thing I learned from a staff member of the museum). A notice explains there still is a baby hatch in town, at Mothers for Mothers. On average a baby a year is put there.