Delaware County, Ohio - Chapter 9: Public Institutions, 1908

Chapter 9: Public Institutions

The Ladies' Christian Union - Delazvare County Infirmary - Children's Home of Delaware- Home for the Aged - Jane M. Case Mem aria! Hospital - Girls' Industrial Home.

The Ladies Christian Union

The Ladies' Christian Union, the oldest charitable organization in Delaware, had its beginning in response to the cry of a babe born in February, 1869, to a mother so poor that she could provide no clothing for its coming. This sad case came to the attention of James Jamison and Judge M. L. Griffin, who were then trustees of Delaware Township. They consulted with Airs. T. B. Williams, whose ready sympathy aroused her to immediate action. She set out to call upon Mrs. C. C. Chamberlain and Mrs. W. P. Reid, two ladies whose names, during their lives, were identified with every charitable and public-spirited movement in this city. Mrs. Williams met these ladies on the sidewalk in front of Mrs. Chamberlain's residence and made known her errand. Airs. Chamberlain at mice said, "We ought to call the ladies together and organize a society." So, on the following Sunday, the clergymen of the city, at the request of the ladies, announced from their pulpits that all ladies who would be interested in organizing a society for charitable work were invited to be present at a meeting called for that purpose at the residence of Mrs. C. C. Chamberlain on 1 certain day of the following week. Mrs. Chamberlain's home was located on Sandusky Street where the Delaware Hardware Company now docs business. Her parlors had already become historic, not only socially, but as the place where many a religious and benevo lent enterprise- had had its birth - becoming, finally, a very "storm center" of woman's patriotic word and work, as she kept brightly burning the home fires 'mid the stormy days of '6 1 -'65. The meeting was largely attended, and an organization effected, of which Mrs. Joanna Murray was elected president, Mrs. Abram Thomson, first vice-president ; Mrs. Hosea Williams, second vice-president ; .Mrs. Charles McElroy. secretary; Mrs. W. F. Whitlock, treasurer. At the following meeting, the name of the organization was suggested, by Mrs. Abram Thomson, and was adopted. The make-up and work of the Union is reflected in its name - "Ladies" denoting its womanly character - "Christian" the spiritual as well as temporal work contemplated - "Union" its cosmopolitan or undenominational character. Soon after, a constitution and bylaws were adopted, and these have undergone but little change during the nearly forty years of good work accomplished by this society. The object of the Union is to help, mainly, sick women and children, or families where the husband and father is sick or disabled for work. Clothing, food and such other helps as the circumstances may recpiire are provided. but money is never given, the Ward Workers making such purchases as may be necessary. An important feature of the work is keeping children warmly and decently clad, so they can attend the public schools. Some years the mi ney expended has amounted to $400, but in recent years it has averaged about Si 50, be-

For seven years the treasury was replenished by membership due--, public and private donations, and an annual dinner that usually netted from $300 to, at one time, $600. The most largely attended dinner was that at which Rutherford B. Hayes, who was then governor of Ohio, and Mrs. Hayes, were the guests of honor. Later the payment of membership fees was discontinued, and while the Union has never been without money, and its wardrobe has never been empty, there came at one time a falling off in its financial resources that caused some anxiety on the part of its officers. The day is well remembered by some of the older workers, when General J. S. Jones stopped one of their number between the Court House and Jones' Block, and said : "Did you know that there was a law authorizing the levying of a special tax for the poor of a city the size of this? The machinery of your 'Christian Union' is in good working order - only money lacking; why not avail yourself of this help that the law provides?" The lawreferred to provided for a tax to be voted by the people, not to exceed three-fourths of a mill, the fund so raised to remain under the control of the City Council, and to be distributed by a committee appointed by the Council, and making to it monthly reports. In 1876. a vote having been carried at the springelection to levy this tax, the Council so ordered, appointing as its committee three ladies from the Christian Union; and from that time funds flowed into its treasury. About this time it was deemed advisable to incorporate the Union under the laws of Ohio. Later this support from the city was withdrawn, and since that time, the Union has depended for the means to carry on its work upon donation- of money, clothing, food, etc. For many years before her death, one of the benevolent ladies of Delaware sent the Union $50 every Christmas, and many times provided a Christmas dinner for every family which it was helping.

The Union has always had tin- o 1 iperation of the city officials, the township trustees, and the truant officer, by whom cases arc often referred to the workers.

.Meetings are held once a month, excepl in times of especial need, when they are held twice a month. At first, the meetings were held in Mrs. Chamberlain's parlors, and afterwards at the homes of the different officers; later the Union was given the use of a room in tne Court House, and when the needs of the county made it necessary to withdraw this privilege, a room was provided in the City Hall, where the members met until the Masonic Temple was completed. The Union then moved int< > a room in the Temple which had been especially adapted to its need, and which had been conveyed to the organization by a perpetual lease given by Mr. Sidney Moore, and Mrs. Moure. by whom the building was erected and presented to the Masonic order.

The following are the names of the ladies who have filled the different offices since the organization of the Union, though at this time we are not able to give them in chronological order. Presidents. Mrs. Joanna Murray. Mrs. Abram Thomson, Mrs. T. B. Williams, Mrs. F. Merrick, Mrs. J. C. Evans. Mrs. James Barnes. Mrs. W. P. Reid, Mrs. W. O. Semans. Secretaries. Mrs. Charles McElroy, Mrs. William Little. Miss F. Perkins. Mrs. T. C. O'Kane. Treasurers. Mrs. W. F. Whitlock. Mrs. I. W. Lindsey, Mrs. Tohn A. Little. Mrs. W. W. Davies.

From the beginning, there have been two visitors appointed for each ward of the city. It is the work of these ladies to discover the needy cases, visit them and report the result of their investigations and efforts to the organization. It should he stated here that no one connected with the Ladies' Christian LTnion receives any remuneration, except that blessed ness which comes from giving both time and substance to those in need. We are unable to give a complete list of the ward visitors from the beginning, but among them are the following: Mrs. T. B. Williams, who is the oldesl ward visitor; she has worked continuously in the Ea<t Ward from the beginning. Mrs. W. O. Semans was a ward visitor continuously from 1872 until within a short time, when the condition of her health made it necessary for her to give up a little of the more arduous work: Mrs. I. J. Shur. Mrs. Loofbourrow,

The present officers of the organization are: Mrs. W. O. Semans, president; Mrs. N. Wagner, vice-president; Mrs. W. M. Semans, secretary; Mrs. W. B. Patton, treasurer; Mrs. W. W. Davies., assistant treasurer. Ward Visitors: Mrs." C. B. Austin, Mrs. T. D. lharp, Mrs. W. B. Patton, Mrs. J. Markle, Mrs. X. Wagner, Mrs. T. B. Williams, Mrs. A W. Wiles.

While the work of the Ladies' Christian Union has heen unostentatious, the amount of good it has accomplished will never Lie known this side of eternity. It has the approval and support of every public-spirited and generously disposed person. Wherever there is need, there these unselfish women are found ministering to it with words of cheer and solace for the mind, and physical necessities and comforts for the body, given with an intelligent sympathy, and regardless of the personal sacrifices that may be involved. They cannot fail to hear the words: "Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you, * * * for 1 was an hungered, and ye gave me meat : I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink : I was a stranger and ye took me in : naked, and ye clothed me: 1 was sick, and yet \isited me."

The early pioneers of Delaware County were, as a class, energetic and industrious, thrifty, self-reliant and provident: among them pauperism was practically unknown. As time went on. however, and the population increased, families were found who became objects of charitable consideration. Some of these were adventurers who had been attracted hither by the apparent prospects of wealth without work: others were thriftless or imprudent; then there were those who were mentally or physically incapacitated for the battle of life, and some who were victims of misfortunes. Kind-hearted neighbors and friends cared for cases of this kind until the burden became too great to be borne by private individuals, and so, in 1852, we find the county commissioners, Ezra Olds, O. D. Hough and Joseph Cellars, appointing three directors to see what provision could be made for the care of these unfortunates. The directors. Horatio P. Havens. Amos Utley and William M. Warren, interviewed many of the leading citizens, and it was finally decided to purchase a farm and erect suitable buildings for the care of the destitute.

In 1S54, the Joseph Blair farm, consisting of 113^2 acres of land in Brown Township, and located about half a mile west of the village of Eden, and five and one-half miles m irtheast of Delaware, was purchased. A substantial brick building was erected, forty by east and west sides of the main building are each forty feet long and two stories high. These wings, and the rear of the main building, are uesd by the inmates, while the front of the house is used by the superintendent and his family. There is a large basement under the entire building. On the first floor is the store room, wash room, kitchen, dining rooms, pantries, and a few bed rooms. The second story is divided into sleeping apartments.

When this farm was first purchased, the wisdom of the commissioners in selecting this location was called in question. For the larger part of the year the place was almost inaccessible, owing to the condition of the mud roads leading to it. Part of the farm was covered by water, and much of the rest of it was swamp and forest. The buildings on the farm were not worth considering for the purpose for which the farm was purchased. But this description does not apply to the farm as we find it todoy. Much of the land has been cleared and tilled, giving the county a farm of great fertility, adapted to raising fruits and vegetables as well as general farm crops. An excellent orchard was planted, and this provides a large part of the fruit consumed. Everything is done to make comfortable the unfortunates who are dependent upon the charity of the county In their declining years.

Axd Representative Citizens

Up to [856, no special provision had been made for the care of the insane, and as these wards of the county increased in number, ii became necessary to provide suitable quarters for them. Accordingly, a stone and brick building was erected in the rear of the infirmary. Heavy iron bars guarded the windows. which were set high up in the walls, and the cell doors, which opened into small hallways, were protected with iron gratings, firmly secured by a wooden door on the .mt>ide. This pen-like affair was far from comfortable, and as it was unsatisfactory in other ways, it soon was deemed necessary to replace this with a larger building, better adapted to the care of the insane.

The Legislature, during the session of iS74-'75, passed an act which authorized the commissioners to levy a tax, ami the directors to build "a prison for the insane." A large and commodious brick building, 50 by 30 feet in dimensions and two stones high, was erected at a cost of $10,000. Under the building is a good basement, which is used as a furnace room. The building is fire-proof, and is provided with every necessary comfort and convenience. Large hallways run through the center of each of the floors from one end of the building to the other. The cells, built of stone and brick, are eight feet by ten, and open off these hallways on either side. The doors are of iron, and the windows are heavily barred. In 1903, a law was passed requiring all insane persons to be sent to the State Asylum. Since then, the building has been used only as a place of detention for insane persons, until such time as they could be taken to the State Asylum. Because of its superior conveniences, a number of the older inmates of the Infirmary are now housed in this building.

There are two capacious barns on the farm, The new barn, built in 1S95, is forty by seventy feet in dimensions. About forty-five head of cattle are kept; sixty lings are fed. of which about forty-five are butchered annually. In 1907, the crops were short, excepting hay. The following were the quantities raised: Wheat, 500 bushels; oats, 700 bushels; corn, 2,000 bushels. About 150 tons of hay are raised each year, of which about five carloads are sold each spring. In 1870, it became evident that the farm was ton small, and 105 acres of laud were purchased from John L. Thurston. In 1905, fifty acres of land were added to the farm on the east, making a total of 268^ acres now in the place. Only a ver. small number of the inmates of the Infirmray are able to lend any assistance in the farm work.

The Infirmary is in charge of a Board of Directors, who are elected by the people. They employ a superintendent to manage the farm, the buildings and the inmates.

The following items from the last annual report will be of interest. At that time there were sixty-eight inmates in the institution. The largest number ever cared for at one time was ninety-seven, while the average runs between sixty and eighty. The proportion of men to women is usually two to one.

From Report For Year Ending Outdoor Relief

Net Expense, exclusive of permanent improvement'; during year ending August 31, 1907. $8001.82. Number of inmates: Male, 44: Female, 24. Total 68.

Nativity Inventory

The Children's Home of Delaware is really the child of the "Ladies' Christian Union," a benevolent society representing all churches, which has for its object the care of the po r of this city. The constant experience of the workers of the "Union" during it- early years deeply impressed upon their minds the need oi some wav to rescue innocent children from homes of sin and ignorance - children, helpless, and with almost hopeless futures. Out of the needs of these innocent children came, finally, the thought of a Children's Home. At this time, more than a quarter of a century ago, there were but few children's homes, and these, with kindergarten work, were little understi "id ; so we can look back with most charitable thought to the really conscientious questionings that met this work the first year or so, regarding not only its practicability, but also the moral feasibility of establishing this Children's Home in Delaware.

Some of the chief arguments raised against this enterprise were: "Institutionizing children" - taking children from parents and thus "rending the most sacred of relationships" - the prophecy most often repeated in discouragement being, that parents would not give up their children - that only unlawfully born children would ever come to fill this Home, thus making of it simply a "Foundling Hospital." to relieve unworthy mothers of burdens, and thus, instead of benefitting the public, encourage the "Social Evil." After much earnest thought and discussion had been hronght to hear on the momentous question, the final crucial hour came. It was a band of noble women who gathered in an "upper room" of the Court House at Delaware in the early months of 1881 . and with faith alone in God as its christening, launched on such an uncertain sea, this life-boat of rescue. Soon after, on April 19. 1881. a preliminary meeting of women and pastors of the various churches was held to consider the question of formally organizing this Children's Home, as decided upon by the ladies of the "Christian Union," and Mrs. Abram Thomson was asked to present to the meeting the 1 bject to be considered. This was done, and then the first question before the meeting seemed to lie. What shall be the plan of organization? Two plans were presented: First, a city or county home, to be supported by private contributions and to lie under private management; second, a county hi me to be organized under the sta tute providing for "County Children's Homes."

I Iii-. Jane M Case Memorial

After a general discussion of these plans, a committee was appointed to consider the entire question. This committee was composed of Airs. John Little, Mrs. Abram Thomson, .Mrs. William P. Reid. Mrs. Eugene Powell and Mrs. J. VV. Icenberger. At a meeting held on April 27, 1SS1. the report of the committee \\a> presented and accepted, being in substance as follows: First. The. name of this corpora-, tion shall be "The Children's Home of Delaware." Second. That it shall be maintained by private and public subscriptions and donations. Third. That it be organized at present as a City Home, with the hope expressed that abundant support will soon widen it out into a Canity Home. Fourth. It shall he located within the city limits, at such place as its trustees may arrange, and near enough for its children to attend public schools and churches.

A constitution had also been prepared, and with slight changes was adopted. The officers were to be a Board of Trustees, consisting of three gentlemen and ten ladies, and a Board of Managers numbering twenty-four. Mrs. Abram Thomson was elected President, and to a history written by her we are indebted for a large part of this sketch. Mrs. Thompson passed to her reward April 23. 1903, and at this point we will digress to quote from a tribute written by the present president of the Home, Mrs. K. B. Shaffer, which appeared in the Delaware Gazette, April 27, 1903:

"In the coronation of Mrs. A. Thomson. Delaware loses one of its most queenly women. the Children's Home its mother, and a multitude of people a friend and companion. The life of this noble woman has stamped itself upon the well-being of the community, and her deeds of love and kindness live in the hearts and lives of those who knew her and loved her. * * * Mrs. Thomson was ever ready to lend a helping hand to any cause that was for the uplifting of humanity. Twenty-two years ago today, Mrs. Thomson was elected president of the Children's Home Association of Delaware. She was the leading spirit that lead to the organization of the Association, and through all the years that followed, she gave the best of her life's service to the building up of this institution for helpless children. X,. sacrifices were too greal her to make, and nothing was to,, good for her to lay at the feet of the little ones she had under her fostering care. The Home was the pride of her heart, her -well-beloved.' and the one thousand or more little ones who have been nurtured and cared for, rise up to call her 'blessed.' "

Vice-presidents were elected - one from each of the churches, and the following are the names of the other officials elected at that time: Mrs. C. H. McElroy, secretary; Mrs. W. G. Williams, treasurer. The trustees were : Mrs. J. W. Icenberger, Mrs. Thomas F. Joy, Mrs. W. O. Semans, Mrs. Wm. P. Reid. Mrs: V. T. Hills, Mrs. J. D. VanDeman. Mrs. Rachel Carter, Dr. F. Merrick, Judge T. C. Jones. Sidney Moore. The Board of Managers was elected as follows: Mrs. John Little. Mrs. C. C. Chamberlain, Mrs. E. T. Butler, Mrs. M. D. Covell, Mrs. J. J. Glover. Mrs. Eugene Powell, Mrs. John Armstrong, Mrs. J. F. Curren, Mrs. T. C. O'Kane, Mrs. Z. Hammond, Mrs. James Slough, Miss Lvdia Mitchell. Mrs, William Bowyer, Mrs. E. E. XefT. Mrs. A. D. Hawn, Mrs.' Thomas Evans. Mrs. Shattuck, Mrs. A. S. Clason. Mrs. H. M. Carper, Mrs. R. B. Cowan, Mrs. P. Heibv, Mrs. J. Markle.

An investigation as to the number of children needing the help of the home was made, and it was discovered that twenty-six children had been in the infirmary during the previous two years, and thirty-two children had been found in homes that were worse than no home-, with no hope for their future, if left amid such environments.

From the trend of the meetings of the trustees held up to this time, it was plain that the gentlemen of the Board, wdtile most respectful and deferential, were, and conscientiously so, not in sympathy with the work. They doubted if money could be raised to support a Home - advised delay in incorporate n, or any attempt to organize a Children's Home - thought the whole thing impracticable, and concluded by offering their resignations and retiring from the work. How true it is, that woman's faith and woman's enthusiasm so often outstrip man's more slow conclusions - reaching, intuitively, results finally approved equally by both. At the next meeting of the Board, the resignations of the gentlemen were accepted, and the resignation of the ladies remaining on the Board were presented, but acceptance of the same was positively refused. This meeting was soon followed by another at which the ladies voted unanimously against incorporating the enterprise. The outlook was truly discouraging - a treasury without one dollar in it, and with nowhere to look for needed supplies - without the prestige of success, and public confidence yet to be won - so many faint hearts among their own number growing discouraged and walking no more with them - the air all around full of doubts and questionings as to the actual need of undertaking so great a work.

In May a dying mother in North Delaware left her two little children to this prospective "Children's Home." Again, in June, a little girl, ragged and neglected, but with a sweet face, came to the home of the president, holding in her hand a note, writttn on the yellow fly-leaf of some old book, which read thus: there is going to be a Children's Home - when it is built will you take my little children?" There were four of these, one a little babe. The hand that wrote this badly spelled and written note, it was learned soon after, was even then growing cold in death. Was not God thus speaking through the lips of these dying mothers to discouraged hearts bidding them go forward and establish a Home?

The six children were cared for by the "Christian Union" during the summer months, temporary accommodation being provided for them in the homes of some of the big-hearted women whose sympathies were with this work. The youngest of the children, a baby boy. died in July.

As the winter of 1881-82 approached, interest seemed once more to revive in this Children's Home. Meetings of the Board of Trustees, which had never been formally disbanded, were again held, and "incorporation" was .nice more pressed as a necessary measure, anil seemed to be more favorably regarded. The Boards of Commissioners and Infirmary Directors were interviewed and found to be in fullest sympathy, giving their endorsement and promise of assistance. The county solicitor gave his opinion that a portion of the "special tax fund," provided for the "Ladies' Christian Union" could be used for the support of these children, but not to rent or to purchase property. Only a small amount of this fund, however, was ever used in the support of this Home. A law prohibiting children being kept in infirmaries made help from Infirmary directors now possible, they promising to board all such children at this Home, paying per week as much as it would cost at the infirmary to keep them. $1.70 per week. The commissioners promised to pay the rent of such a home and coal bills, allowing for this purpose $33.00 a month. The city was thoroughly canvassed, and some $600.00 was raised, which, with membership dues and this help promised, made it seem practical in December, [88i, to open a temporary Home on Union Street. Two sisters, Mrs. Slough and Mrs. Wise, took charge, the Home opening with ten children, six of whom were from the Infirmary. Of these Infirmary children, two beautiful sisters, twins, some months old, were early adopted into loving homes, in the pure atmosphere of which they have grown up into equally beautiful girlhood and womanhood, making glad today the hearts of proud fosterparents.

On January 2, 1882, the following ladies appeared before Owen L. Davis, notary public, and signed papers of incorporation : Delia L. Williams, Sarah W. Thomson, Elizabeth Butler, Abigail M. Semans. E. J. Richardson, Caroline McElroy, Lettie S. Joy, H. A. Reynolds. Louise F. Powell. E. I. Icen'oerger. Two days later these papers were filed with the Secretary of State at Columbus. This act of incorporation seemed to give new life and dignity, and to win a public confidence hitherto lacking.

\nil now, having been successfully started once more in its work of child-saving, it will be wise to compress into a briei space the history of the succeeding nine years of "The Children's Home of Delaware." until March, [890, when it was permanently located in its own beautiful home. Soon after the incorporation, a lew changes were made in its constitution : The number constituting its Board of Trustees was changed from thirteen to ten, thus eliminating what had certainly, in this case, proved to lie the unlucky number; its name, too, was changed to that of "The Delaware Dome for Children and Aged People" so as to widen the scope of its work. But this was early felt to have been a mistake, although seven worthy old ladies, who were not properly subject-- for the Infirmary, were tenderly cared for the first few years, until from want of room the work- had to he abandoned in -the year 1885, and the original name, "Children's Home of Delaware." was rest ired.

It may be well to preserve as pari of tins history, and as having been vital, perhaps, in the successful founding and subsequent career of this Home, three planks in the principles governing it that newer appeared in constitution or by-laws, hut which were generally understood ami religiously observed. Failing in the start to gain the support and influence of the men. the management realized that if it developed at all, women alone must lay both corner-stone and cap-stone - be their own builders and assume all control. Realizing that in the make-up of this society all religions and church creeds would he represented, it was early seen that any conflict of these creeds or discords of religion must he carefully avoided. So Plank No. 1 was unconsciously recognized, wrote itself on hearts alone, and read thus - "We will take our religion with us to this work, but we will carefully leave our 'creeds' at home." Plank No. _' was adopted by a rising vote: "Whereas, we believe it to be the curse of rum more than any other cause that has made homeless these children of our Home; with many of them, perhaps, inheriting'these appetites, thus requiring mure than usual care and protection - and that as a Christian association we are responsible lor their moral as well as physical welfare, therefore Resolved: That the use of no form of intoxicants he ewer permitted in our Home, either as a beverage or in the preparation of food; and that we also assume the responsibility of excluding" it as a medicine, believing that He who remembers the "Little sparrow as it falls.' will not forget these. His little ones, but will bless the use of other means when sickness requires. Resolved, That these resolutions be placed on our minutes as a living protest against this greatest of all evils."

that the doors of our Home were always open with warm welcome to the public at large; the line was drawn alone on one individual - a maiden lady ot uncertain age. that fortunately or unfortunately, had drawn upon herself this prejudice of the managers of the Home. This may have seemed a strange prejudice, as this person was ever an unusually welcome litest at all other penal, reformatory and benevolent institutions of the State, and where, too, she has often banqueted "ii state occasions, and really seemed to hold unlimited and dominating power. But nevertheless, .Miss 'Ticks' - Miss 'Polly Ticks' - so well known and popular elsewhere, has never been invited, received or allowed admittance in this Home, managed by women. And thus have ever been excluded 'Church Creeds.' 'Intoxicants.' and -Politics.' "

In establishing the governing principles of ihi-- Home, and knowing- how often abuses had crept into institutions of this kind, with children as the sufferers, it was early decided that "Love, instead of the Lash." must he the corrective force employed. And in the first "Rules and Regulations of the Household." this rule was placed: "Corporal punishment can only be indicted in extreme cases, and alone by the Matron when lighter punishment has failed." This principle of the fullest protection to these helpless children has always keen acted upon.

Street to the Bixby home on East William Street. The rent, $25.00 a month, was paid by the commissioners, with additional money for coal. The different rooms were comfortably furnished by individuals and churches. Miss Lucinda Joy became the first regular matron. April 1, [882. During the months preceding the first annual meeting in April, i88_\ .\h^. Thomson, on account of domestic duties, finding it necessary to resign her office as president, Mrs. W. ( .. Williams was elected to fill the vacancy, and Mrs. Thomson was prevailed upon to accept the treasiirership, which office had been filled by Mrs. Williams, and which involved le>s time and responsibility. Mrs. McElroy had also resigned as secretary and Mrs. Eugene Powell had taken her place. These changes were ratified at the annual election. April 25, [882, with the exception that Mrs. A. M. Semans became secretary. With a lew changes in each, the old boards oi trustees and Managers were also re-elected.

At the annual meeting held in [883, the treasurer's report showed as receipts lor the preceding year, $3,001.63; expenses. $_>.- 427.19: balance in treasury, S574.44. 'I he president, secretary and treasurer were reelected. Increasing respons<ibilties in connection with other lines of work made it necess.irv for Mrs. Williams to tender her resignation, which was with great reluctance accepted. Her loss to the association was regarded as serious. Mrs. Williams having been a power during its formative period in bringing into shape and success full)' s'tarting this child-saving enterprise. Mrs. Semans positively refused to accept the office of president to which she was elected, so Mrs. Thomson was again pressed into service as president for the remainder of the year, and Mrs. J. W. Lindsey was elected treasurer. Mrs. Lindsey continued to perform the duties <>f this important office with efficiency and faithfulness for eighteen years, until ill health compelled her to resign in September, 1901.

In [884 the same officers were re-elected, wuh the exception that Mrs. Eugene Powell became secretary. In November Mrs. Thomson was again compelled to resign, and Mrs.

The same officers, with boards of Trustees and Managers were re-elected in 1885. and the incidents of removing the Home to the Cummins house on North Liberty Street, where it remained until firmly anchored in its present location, and the necessary abandonment of the work for aged people, were all that marked especially the history of the Home that year. In April, 1886, another change was made necessary owing to the failing health of the beloved Airs. Little, under whose firm but efficient and gentle leadership the Home bad more and more won public confidence and favor. During these years the number of children had increased to an average of about forty, and the hearts and hands of the committee on "Placing Children" were kept busy in finding homes for so large a number. This finding right homes was ewer regarded as the most important part of the work - the placing these children where each character, so carefully studied while under the care of the Home, would find as far as possible its fittest environment - the Home being regarded only as the place to do the necessar) preparatory work oi fitting these little ones, both to merit and to hold the mi. re permanent homes found for them. I 'suall_\ these children are placed in homes in the count), where the Society can. through committees visiting them, keep in touch with their treatment and surroundings. Notwithstanding the favorable public .sentiment won during these years, tip to this time a constant battle was being waged from time to time to keep the wolf from the door, and make ends meet in financial support of the I lome.

In the resignation of Mrs. Little and the discouragemenl that followed. Mrs. Thomson was again persuaded to come back to her old place as president, and Mrs. Powell and Mrs. Lindsey, as secretary and treasurer, respectively, were elected in [886, and these again in 1887. In April, [888, Mrs. Powell took the office of president, once more vacated, and Mrs. Henry A. Welch took Mrs. Powell's place as secretary.

Axd Representative Citizen S.

So poorly adapted to the wants 1 if tins large family were the rented houses that had been occupied up to this time, and so circumscribed was the room, that it seemed impossible tn establish the order and discipline so necessary in the development of young lives whose chief need is this sort of training-. And so, during all these years, the need of a permanent home so adapted to its wants that all of the great possibilities of this enterprise might be realized, pressed more and more upon the hearts of the management. Years had passed without seeming to come any nearer the realization of this wish, until in the summer of [889, discouragement seemed to resolve itself into despair through the resignation and removal from the city of the president. Mrs. Eugene Powell, who from the inception of the work had been an inspiration to it. After once more recalling Mrs. Thomson to the presidency, a committee was appointed on June 5, 1889, to see what steps could be taken toward securing a permanent home. Mrs. Henry A. Welch. Mrs. Rachel Carter, Mrs. J. W. Lindsey and Mrs. Thomson composed this committee. They found in the Board of County Commissioners most stanch and sympathizing friends, ready to help to the fullest extent the law allowed. In their law-abiding devotion to the county's interests, no less than in their brave stepping out into this new field of rescue to the perishing. J. L. Thurston, S. J. Mann, and M. Field wrote each his name with most honorable mention on the county's history.

A law, seemingly lost under the legislative debris of twenty years, was resurrected by this committee of women. Under its provisions the commissioners of a county were permitted to insist a charity of this kind to the extent of $6,000 in buildings. The Potter property, just north of the city, beautifully located for this purpose, and with seven acres of ground, improved at an expense of $20,000, was offered to the committee for less than halt of its real value, $8,500.00. So lost and seemingly forgotten had this law become that much and quite distinguished legal talent was exercised in trying to influence the commissioners against acting under it. So persistent were the efforts in this directii 11 that had 11 been for the courageous and gallant I made by Gen. j. S. Jones and don Geo W. Carpenter, prosecuting attorney, in 1 fense of the law, and the perfect legality of the commissioners' acting under it, the case would have been lost. As soon as the commissioners were assured that they could safely act, they encouraged the trustees of the Home to secure the property, the commissioners assummg $6,000.00 of the purchase money, the trustees expecting to mortgage the property for the remaining $2,500.00. In March, 1890. this valuable property was transferred by the owner, Mr. Robert Xeal, of Columbus, to the trustees of "The Children's Home of Delaware" - Mr. Xeal making to the ladies a donation of $200.00. Kind friends now came to the relief of the women in the large debt they had assumed. The wdiole-souled Judge Jones (one of the doubting Thomases on the original Board of Trustees, but nevertheless. a stanch friend of the Home for twenty years) was the first of them. A petition gotten up by him. with the assistance of Mr. E. E. Xeff and Mr. J. P. Thompson, was circulated, and a bill lor S2. 500.00. with $500.00 added for repairs was gotten through the Legislature by another stanch friend, R. K. Willis, then member from this district. The "Committee on Permanent Home" having done its work, was discharged, and in March, 1890. the large and now happy family was moved into its truly beautiful home, which was formally dedicated the following September. At this time, the following boards of Trustees and Managers were in charge of the Home :

The total number of children cared for in these nine years was 168; returned to parents, thirty-seven: placed in homes, seventyone ; returned to other counties and placed in asylums and hospitals, sixteen. The expense of keeping up the Home averaged each year $2,000.00, or a total expenditure of $17,171.74. This property now purchased by consent of Board of Commissioners, was deeded direct to Trustees of the Children's Home, to be held by them so long as it was used for the purpose of a Children's Home. When not so used, the property to revert hack to the county. On the removal of the Home to its new quarters, Gen. J. S. Jones made arrangements to board at this Home, and thus assist in its support, children from the overcrowded quarters of the "Soldiers' and Sailors' Home" at Xenia. The management deciding at the same time to board children from other counties where there were no Children's Homes. The Association, thus newly equipped, seemed endowed with a new life, as it started out on a future so full of possibilties.

The chief incidents of note during the following years, '91, '92, '93, were: In September a lot was kindly donated by the cemetery trustees, with the understanding that as soon as the Association was able, a suitable monument would be erected. Such a monument was placed in February, 1895, at a cost of $135.00. In September, 1891, an Advisory Board of three gentlemen was decided on, with by-laws to that effect. Gen. J. S. Jones. Rev. J. F. Shaffer, D. D., and Mr. E. E. Neff comprised this Board. In May. [892, the need of remodelling and adding more room to the, building so as to accommodate the largely increased family, now numbering from fifty to sixty, resulted in the appointment of a committee - Mesdames Baker, Welch, Lindsey and Thomson - to secure means somehow for this purpose. A few months later, by compromising a law-suit with the Short Line Railroad, a right-of-way, taking 168 feet from the northeast corner of the yard, was conveyed to the railroad for $3,000.00. and this sum was applied to the new building, the county commissioners promising to supply the balance of the necessary money. In December, a kindergarten was started. This was suspended while the Home was being remodelled, and since that time it bas seemed impractical to renew it. In January, 1893. a handsome donation of books from Mrs. W. C. Ginn became the nucleus of a library, christened the "Ginn Library." Mrs. Ginn was an active member of the Board of Managers, who for two or three years gave an hour each week to the children of this Home in interesting talks or lectures on familiar subjects.

The work of remodelling the Home was completed in the fall of 1893 at an expense of $7,369.13. and dedication exercises were held November 1, 1893.

Two delegates have been sent each year to represent the Home at the Annual Meetings of the "Associated Charities." so that the broadest and most intelligent thought might be given to the management of this child-saving work.

By August, 1895, the work of placing the' large number of children that were coming into the Home became so great that it was decided to appoint an agent, not only to find such homes and adjust the children to them, but to visit the children and keep the Association in touch with them. Mrs. J. W. Lindsey was appointed to this work which she has performed ever since in a most efficient manner.

On the night of February 19, 1896, an intensely cold night, the thermometer registering twelve degrees below zero, this beautiful Home was entirely destroyed by fire. The family of fifty children, some of whom were quarantined with scarlet fever, were carried out of the burning building in their night clothes, and with only such wraps as could be hastily caught up, to shelter elswhere. Heroic actii m by matron, employes and citizens that hastily gathered from near and far saved without hurt the lives of these helpless little children. The Opera House was thrown open, and here the children were soon gathered and made comfortable for the time. The Wilson home in South Delaware was finally secured, and here the children were comfortably quartered until the Home was rebuilt, ample insurance having been carried to do this. So fully has this once-questioned charity established itself in the confidence of the citizens that about $500.00 was received from different societies and individuals, besides groceries, provisions of all kinds, clothing and bedding in abundance.

The following ladies composed the boards of Trustees and Managers who bravely at this time met the disastrous work of the fire fiend, and with the help of almost the entire citizenship of Delaware, warmed, fed, clothed and housed the fifty little children turned out of home in the cold of that night.

In December, 1896, the commissioners appropriated $660.00 for a new barn, and in May, 1897, $150.00 was allowed for sewerage by the same Board. In September, 1897, the 1 ild boards of Trustees and Managers, with a few changes were re-elected. Mrs. H. A. Welch, after long and faithful service gave up the secretaryship, and Mrs. Anna Joy Halliday was elected in her stead. Mrs. Welch, however, remained on the Board of Trustees as chairman of the "Building and Grounds Committee."

The year 1898 was marked by no special incidents other than some changes in the boards of Trustees and Managers. In April, 1899, eighteen acres of pasture land were purchased, it being necessary to keep quite a number of cows to supply milk for so many children. $1,100.00 was the price paid; $700.00 of this coming from the treasury, the balance being borrowed from the bank for a short time.

At the annual meeting, in September, 1899. the constitution was changed reducing the number of managers from twenty-four to eighteen, and restricting the voting power to the members of boards of Trustees. Managers and Advisory Board of Women from Townships. At this election the old officers were continued, except that Mrs. H. A. Welch became historian and corresponding secretary in place of Mrs. Van Deman, resigned.

At the time of writing this brief sketch of the Home, it has accommodations for about sixty children, though the average number of inmates is about forty-five. The Association owns thirty-six acres of land in Delaware, keeps five cows and a horse, raises garden truck and poultry and a large part of the meat consumed in the Home. The present officials of the Home are as follows: President, Mrs.

Delaware County may well be proud of its "Children's Home!" And what shall we say of the noble Christian women to whom the community is so deeply indebted for this beneficent institution? Some have already been called to hear the words: "Well done, good and faithful servant;" cithers remain, still identified with the work which has claimed their heart and hand these many years. Indifference, opposition, obstacles apparently insurmountable, they have overcome. Inspired by the crying needs of the little ones, with faith in the children's God, and working with the energy of conviction, they have built a lasting monument to woman's higher intelligence, sympathy, love and devotion.

Home For The Aged

The need for a home for worthy old ladies, wdio are not properly subjects for the County Infirmary, was recognized many years ago by the Delaware women who were foremost in philanthropic work. The first step in making a provision of this kind was taken in the early '8o's, when the name of "The Children's Home of Delaware" was changed to that of "The Delaware Home for Children and Aged People." and a number of worthy old ladies were admitted. It was soon felt, however, that a separate home should be provided for the aged, and in 1885, the growing work among the children made it necessary, for the time being, to abandon the work of caring for the aged at the Children's Home. This was a keen disappointment to Airs. Abram Thomson, the founder of the Home, and to the other benevolent women who were interested in the w 1 nk". They were not disheartened by this setback, but were strengthened in their desire and determination to establish an instituton devoted exclusively to the care of the aged.

Airs. Elmer Hills was the leading spirit in the movement which resulted in establishing the present Home ; closely associated with her in the early work of arousing interest in the enterprise were Airs. Alartha Lybrand and Airs. Ella Battenfield. Aleetings were held from time to time in the homes of different ladies, and beginning Alarch 10. 1892. interest had reached a point where meetings began to be held at frequent intervals. The clergymen and leading business men of the city were invited to confer with the ladies regarding the project. A meeting was held in a vacant storeroom ; besides the ladies and the ministers only two or three business men were present. It can hardly be said that the enthusiasm of the men ran high. The ministers plied the women with such questions as these: "AYhere are the old ladies to come from?" How many have you in view ?" "How much money have you to start with?" "How much would be required to start such a home?" The effect of their wise counsel was so disheartening that, for the moment, many of the ladies felt like abandoning the enterprise; but courage revived, for those engaged in this work were inspired by their noble cause with a zeal that could nut be quenched. A committee was sent to the Home at Columbus. There they were given much good advice, and learned that the Ci lumbus institution was started without a dollar, and in spite of the apathy of those from whom the organizers naturally exoected moral and financial support. Upon hearing the report of this committee, the Delaware ladies voted unanimously to push ahead. An organization was formed, and a committee appointed to look for a suitable house. After searching for a week without finding a place such as was desired. Air. Elmer Hills offered the free use of his large house on North thought that in that time results would show whether the experiment would prove a success or a failure. If. at the end of the trial period, it was decided to go on with the work, the Association was to lease the property for five years. The Home was established here on July 4. 1892. with three old ladies from the Infirmary, the directors of which promised to pay one dollar a week for the board of each.

The first regular meeting of the Associate m at the Home was held on July 12th. and at that time, Mrs. J. L. Wolfley, who has held the office continuously ever since that time, was elected treasurer.

The Home was furnished by the different churches - one furnishing the parlor, another the dining room, others the chambers, etc. Many liberal-hearted citizens also contributed to the good work.

The wisdom of incorporating the Association soon became apparent, and March 1, 1893. papers of incorporation of "The Home for the Aged" of Delaware were issued at Columbus, in which the names of the following ladies appear as incorporators : Mrs. Susan Hills. Mrs. Martha C. Lybrand, Mrs. J. L. Wolflev. Mrs. Frances I. Gill. Mrs. Isabella Riddle! Mrs. Elizabeth Ufford and Mrs. Abigail M. Semans.

The following ladies comprised the charter members and the original officials of the Association : President, Mrs. Elmer Hills ; First vice-president, Mrs. A. R. Carter; second vice-president. Mrs. J. S. Gill ; third vice-president. Mrs. R. Parsons; secretary. Mrs. A. Lybrand; treasurer, Mrs. J. L. Wolfley. These officers and the following ladies constitute the Board of Trustees: Mrs. Abigail Semans. Mrs. Eliza Perkins. Mrs. Chauncy Hills, Mrs. Christian Riddle. Board of Managers: Mrs. Eva Thompson, Mrs. Will Smith. Mrs. W W. Davies. Mrs. W. R. Carpenter. Mrs. James Smith. Mrs. B. W. Brown.' Mrs. Edward Welch. Mrs. F. A. Hyatt, Miss M. Dickinson, Mrs. Sidney Moore. Mrs. John Hills. Mrs. E. Ufford. Mrs. Frank Marriott. Mrs. G. Matheas, Mrs. F. Rutter. Mrs. Woodlawn. Mrs. F. Chamberlain. Mrs. Tucv Patton. Mrs. L.

In 1897 the Infirmary directors were prevailed upon to furnish coal to the Home, and since that time have continued to pay the fuel bills. Natural gas has been used for the last couple of years for heating purposes.

In 1901, and indeed before that, it began to be felt that the Home was too small for the ever increasing demands made upon it, and the question of erecting a building received earnest consideration. A number of building lots were kindly offered by public spirited citizens and .by the People's Building Association. Before an}- definite action had been taken in regard to building, Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Moore offered the Board of Managers a ninetynine-years' lease of the property the Home now occupies, with the privilege of the lessee to purchase the property at any time for a certain price. The conditions attached to this generous offer were that the Association put the building in perfect repair, pay the taxes and that it shall never be put to any other use than as a home for aged people. This offer was eagerly accepted. There are twenty rooms in the house, giving accommodations for fourteen or fifteen inmates, besides the matron and help. As far as they are aide, the inmates are required to help in the necessary household work. Including boarders, there have been admitted up to this time thirtyeight aged ladies, and there have been twenty deaths. At present there are twelve inmates of the Home, and there is usually a number on the waiting-list to gain admission. Ladies fifty years of age or older, who have resided one year in Delaware County, are eligible, the fee being $300.00 f< >r w< 'men between the ages of titty and seventy, and $200.00 for those over seventy years of age. Aside from these fees, the Home depends for its maintenance upon the generosity of the public, its principal source of income being a large dinner given annually to the alumnae of Ohio Wesleyan University ; more or less money is also received fri >m Harvest Home basjs. entertainments.

book collections, etc. The Home has received financial assistance beyond what its founders dared hope for; yet there is still much work to be done, in which every dollar given by a generous public will find a worthy and charitable use.

The present officers of the Home are : Mrs. Christian Riddle, president; Mrs. John Cowgill, first vice-president ; Mrs. Martin Miller, second vice-president; Mrs. J. H. Gardner, third vice-president; Mrs. Lewis Slack, secretary; Mrs. J. L. Wolrley. treasurer. The 1!< iard of Trustees includes the foregoing officers and the following ladies: Mrs. Abigail Semans. Mrs. Sidney Moore, Mrs. H. C. Thompson, Mrs. F. A. Hyatt.' The Board of Managers is composed of thirty-four ladies chosen from the different churches of the city.

The Jane M. Case Memorial Hospital

The Jane M. Case Memorial Hospital, so named in honor of the donor, is an institution such as few cities of the size of Delaware can boast. It has been said by visiting physicians to be the most successful institution of its size and kind in the country.

Mrs. Case was a widow, whose husband had been a practicing physician of Columbus, and who, for a time, was associated with Dr. John A. Little of Delaware. After her husband's death, Mrs. Case made her home with her son, who was a practicing physician in Cleveland. The climate of that city did not agree with Mrs. Case, so in 1N88 she came to Delaware, where she resided until her death in 1904. In her will, after making certain bequests to friends and relatives, she provided that part of her estate be devoted to benevolent or charitable purposes, and appointed trustees to carry out her intentions. Dr. A. J. Willey, her attending physician, having been a witness to Mrs. Case's will, and conversant with its provisions, went, soon after her death, to the trustees of her estate and presented the claims of Delaware for a hospital. His suggestions received favorable consideration. At this point, it ought to be said that Delaware is deeply indebted to Dr. Willey for his prompt action in this matter, and for the time and effort he devoted so unselfishly to this cause. The first time Dr. Willey saw the trustees, he proposed the purchase of the present property. Dr. W. H. Hague and Hon. F. M. Marriott were called upon for assistance and counsel, and it was decided to purchase the Edwin G. Lybrand homestead on the southwest corner of Franklin and Winter Streets. Dr. Willey was asked to secure an option on the property, which authority he delegated to F. M. Marriott, by whom the option was secured. The property was purchased August 1, 1904. by Guy H. Buttolph and Ellen G. Whiting, trustees of Mrs. Case's estate at a cost of SN.- 500, and by them was transferred to the trustees of the Jane M. Case Hospital Association on December 23rd of the same year.

On August 10, 1904, the Jane M. Case Hospital Association was incorporated by V. D. Stayman, Frank M. Marriott, Arthur H. Jones, Christian Riddle and W. H. Hague. The objects of the Association are: ( 1) To provide medical and surgical aid and nursing for sick and disabled persons, free of expense to those unable to pay. and at a cost to tin >se who are able to pay the amount to be determined by the trustees. (2) To instruct and train suitable persons in .the duties of nursing and attending upon the sick. The first meeting of the Association was held August 15, 1904, and the following trustees were elected for life: V. D. Stayman, president; Dr. W. H. Hague, vice-president ; Frank M. Marriott, secretary; Christian Riddle, treasurer; Arthur H. Jones, C. C. Stedman and Stephen Potter. Besides the Board of Trustees, there is an Auxiliary Board of not less than thirty ladies, residents of Delaware, to assist the Trustees in raising funds for the maintenance of the institution. Knowing that failure had marked the history of so many other small hospitals, great care was exercised to secure an organization that would prove permanent and insure the success of the Hospital after it was started. The institution has been kept out of politics and free from the turmoils of religious Strife, nor is it under the domination of any individual. The staff comprises nearly all the physicians in Delaware County. Dr. W. B. Hedges has been chief of stall' since the organization of the 1 [ospital. In the summer and fall of 1905, the old building was entirely remodelled and a new addition was built at an expense of $9,000.00. While ways and means of furnishing the Hospital were being discussed. Air. S. S. Blair kindly came forward with an offer to do this for an advance of ten per cent, on the cost of the furnishings, and to carry the account until such time as the trustees were in a position to pay it. Altogether there are twenty-two rooms, including a fully equipped operating-room, nine rooms for private patients and three wards, one each for men, women and children, having a total of fourteen beds. Each of the following churches and individuals furnished a room: William Street M. E. Church, St. Paul's M. E. Church. St. Peter's Episcopal Church, of which Mrs. Case was a member, furnished the n om which Mrs. Case had occupied for about turee years while she boarded at that house; St. Mary's R. C. Church, First Presbyterian Church, Asbury M. E. Church. Epworth League of Lewis Center, M. L. Wolff; the women's ward was furnished by Zion's Reformed Church in memory of their late pastor, Rev. L. B. Lahr. D. D. ; J. F. Dodd furnished the ward known as the "Ruth Children's Ward." Dr. J. K. James presented the Hospital with a United States Observatory clock. which he maintains at his own expense.

The trustees recently purchased the most modern high pressure sterilizer that money can buy. On July 21, 1906, the Hospital, fullv furnished and equipped for the reception of patients was opened with an efficient chief nurse and a competent corps of assistant nurses, eight in number. The training school for nurses gives the standard three-year course. An electric elevator and a dumb-waiter were installed in the fall of 1907 by the Ladies' Auxiliary Board. They provide and make all the linen used in the Hospital. They have also assumed and paid a note for $1,500.00 which the Association owed. One of the unique ways by which they secure funds is known as "tag day." On this day. which comes once a year, the ladies sally forth into the street and tag every pedestrian they meet, allowing none to escape until he has paid for his tag by contributing to their Hospital funds. $2,000.00 a year is paid by the county toward the maintenance of the Hospital, there being a legislative enactment making it possible to raise this sum by taxation. The annual meeting of the Association is held the last Monday in January of each year.

A number of changes in the personnel of the Board of Trustees have occurred; Arthur H. Jones removed from the city, and Dr. A. J. Willey was elected in his place; V. D. Stayman resigned, and S. S. Blair was elected to fill the vacancy ; upon the death of Dr. Hague, R. K. Willis was elected a trustee, and is now president of the Board.

From the report issued in January. 1908, we learn that during the seventeen months since the opening of the Hospital, 216 patients have been admitted. The average cost of caring for each patient, not including wear and tear on fixtures and furnishings, was $11.05 per week. Of these cases, no were medical and 106 were surgical. There were sixty-three charity cases, whose treatment covered a period equal to 191 weeks for one person.

The Girls' Industrial Home

The Girls' Industrial Home, one of the benevolent and reformatory institutions of Ohio, is situated upon the west bank of the Scioto River, in Concord Township, about ten miles southwest of Delaware. The nearest railroad station is Hyatts, on the Columbus. Hocking Valley & Toledo road, three and onehalf miles distant. There is an excellent pike between the home and the city of Delaware. The telephone between the Home and Delaware was the first long-distance 'phone installed in Ohio.

A location more beautiful or better suited to an institution of this kind would be difficult to find. There are 189 acres of land in the property. The campus surrounding the buildings is covered with beautiful shade tree-, many of which are of the original forest. The white sulphur spring is practically inexhaustible, and is used constantly and almost exclusively for drinking. It is unsurpassed by any of the most healthful waters at the most popular public resorts of the country. The property itself has an interesting history, dating from 1820, when Davis & Richards bored a well here, about two and one-half inches in diameter, in the hope of finding salt. The well was sunk 460 feet, the last ninety feet being through solid rock, when the augur suddenly dropped about two feet, and up gushed with great force a stream of strong white sulphur water. The water is pure, and is supposed to be driven by its own gas ; it has a temperature of fifty degrees. Davis & Richards considered they had made a failure, and left the well unfinished. Nothing further was done in the way of development until about 1842, when a man named Nathaniel Hart, bought the land of the owner, Christopher Freshwater, erected a large building and several cottages, and from that time on it became widely known as a watering place and exceedingly popular. A 1 1*. Hart sold the property to Andrew Wilson, Jr.. who conducted the enterprise until 1865. As the patrons of the place were largely southerners, the war badly crippled the enterprise, and the hard times at the close of the war. as well as the feeling then existing between the North and the South, made it impossible for Mr. Wilson to continue the business on the large and profitable scale to which he had been accustomed, .so in 1865 he sold out to Col. John Ferrv. The new owner, at considerable expense, enlarged, remodelled and refurnished the hou--e, besides building an addition to it; but it seemed as if the place were doomed as a resort, and after a year or two the venture was pbandi med.

Seeing this tine property going to rum and decay, a number of public-spirited and benevolently disposed citizens of Delaware County petitioned the Legislature to establish here a home for unprotected girls. May 5, 1869, the General Assembly passed an act creating the institution and a Hoard of Trustees was appointed, consisting of Prof. F. Merrick'. Abram

Thomson, M. D. Leggett, Clark Waggener and Stanley Matthews. The Board met and organized at Columbus on the 29th of May. The property was purchased for $55,000.00 on the 2 1 st of July following, and the Home was formally opened on the 15th of October of that year. The institution was then called "Reform School for Girls;" but in 1872, by a special Act of the Legislature, the present name was adopted.

The buildings consisted of a three-story frame hotel, with a stone basement, situated on the ground now partially occupied by Cottage No. 6, and facing the east (as does the present alignment of brick cottages) ; south of the hotel, and ninety-five feet distant therefrom, stood a two-story frame building known as the Mansion House. A short distance south from this house was the beginning of a row of cottages, which extended south to the present site of Cottage No. 2. This line of smaller buildings, known as "Cottage Row," was composed of eight frame structures ; four twi >- story, and four one-story buildings ; all of these, from the hotel to the last cottage on this alignment, were connected by a covered wooden promenade. South of this row of cottages stood a two-story frame chapel. Southeast of this building, and about seventyfive feet distant therefrom, stood another row of frame cottages known as "Southern Row," running east and west and facing the north, consisting of two double frame buildings, located on the ground which was later occupied by Cottage No. 7. These, together with the bath-house, bowling alley, and the "Burnett House," constituted the tenements that passed to the State.

These buildings were all dressed in white paint, with green blinds, which lent a peculiar charm to the beautiful grounds that had been tastefully laid out and set with groves of young indigenous and exotic trees.

On the 19th of November, the superintendent. Dr. John Nichols, made his first report, which shows that six girls were enrolled as pupils in the new school. We also glean from that report that the buildings, though beautiful and extensive, did not possess every requirement necessary for comfortable winter quarters. This was evidently understood at the time of the purchase, as the whole premises had been designed and the buildings constructed for summer use only ; but with hasty repairs on some of the more substantial houses, they were made tenable against the approaching storms of winter. However, just as those connected with the work began to feel secure in the permanency of their plans, the Legislature passed an Act, April 14, 1870, which seemed to transfer to the Board of Managers of the Ohio Soldiers' and Sailors' Orphan's Home, all of the premises so recently purchased by the State for the establishment of the State Reform and Industrial School for Girls, save and except the "Burnett House," and five acres of land adjacent thereto. After some correspondence between the officials of the two institutions, the matter was finally submitted to the attorney-general for his opinion, the result of which left the trustees of the Reform and Industrial School in possession of their purchase.

On February 24, 1873, while a deputation from the Legislative Committee was making its annual visit to the Home, and while in the very act of commenting favorably concerning the satisfactory workings and prosperity of the institution, fire suddenly broke out in the old Mansion House, which was soon destroyed, together with the chapel and superintendent's home. The larger buildings were attacked, but enough were saved of "Cottage Row" and "Southern Row" to furnish crowded accommodations for the officers and pupils of the Home.

During the session of 1872-73. the Legislature appropriated $24,000.00 for the erection of two new brick buildings, which are now known as Cottages Nos. 1 and 3. They were the first brick structures erected on the farm. The "Administration." or "Central Building," as it is sometimes called, from its location, was built at a cost of $25,000.00, and was completed, ready for occupancy in May. 1874. Here the business of the institution is transacted and the superintendent and his family reside. In 1875. "Cottage No. 2." sometimes known as the "Fire-proof" Cottage, was built on the site formerly occupied by the old frame chapel. This was the fourth brick building, including the "Central," in the order of construction by the State. It is now being enlarged and remodelled. "Cottage No. 6," although the fifth in order of construction, was completed and ready for occupancy in January, 1878. It cost, including gas fittings and water pipe, $12,500.00, and was built on the ground occupied by the old frame hotel which was destroyed by fire in 1873. It is the northerly terminus of the row of brick buildings that face the east.

The buildings now known as Cottages Nos. 4 and 5 were completed and ready for use in the month of June, 1880. They were paid for out of an appropriation of $25,000.00 made by the Legislature. In order to secure a proper location for them, the three old frame cottages standing between the Administration Building and Cottage No. 2, were removed to the east line of the road running north and south through the farm, where they now stand, the only relics (except the "Burnett House") of the "beauty and glory" that adorned the grounds of this once famous watering place.

Work on the erection of "Cottage No. 7" was begun early in 1881. hut the structure was not completed until the spring of '82. It cost, including pipes for steam heat, $15,500.00. It was located on ground formerly occupied by what was known as "Southern Row," and faced north. This building was destroyed by fire on July 21, 1904. In 1907 it was replaced by an attractive building, known as "Honor Cottage," located just in the rear of the site where No. 7 stood. The building cost about 832,000.00. and the furnishings about $6.- 000.00 more. It was opened on November 15th and occupied by the sixty-six girls having the highest rank in the institution.

"Cottage No. 8," which faces south, is located on an elevated piece of ground about 200 feet northeast of "Cottage No. 6." It was completed in the fall of [888, at a cost of $13,954.14, and was at that time used as the "Honor Cottage."

All the buildings described above are two stories in height above the foundations, except one wing on "Cottage No. 8," and the Administration Building, which has a tall mansard roof on the main part of the structure.

A visit to the institution is necessary in order to gain even a fair conception of its magnitude and importance. At present there are 507 girls here, and these together with the officials and employes make a total population of about 550. The pupils of the institution are housed in the eight "Cottages," just described. It should be understood that these "Cottages," so called, are very large and spacious buildings. Those living in each cottage are under the direct care of the matron, house-keeper and cottage school teacher.

In the rear of the Administration Building is the chapel, where religious exercises are conducted. The Sunday services consist of Sabbath school at 10 A. M., which is followed by public worship and preaching by Rev. \V. F. Whitlock. D. D., who has been chaplain of the institution for many years.

Instruction is given at the "Central School Building." which was erected in 1897, at a cost, including furnishings, of about $25,- 000.00. It contains eleven rooms. Besides the eight grammar grades, there is a two-ye ir high school course, in which such branches, including bookkeeping, shorthand and typewriting are taught, as will be most useful to the pupils when the have left the home. Instruction in vocal and instrumental music is also given under the direction of a competent teacher.

A "Technical and Industrial Building" is being constructed, which will cost, including furnishings and fixtures, ahout $15,000.00. 1 )( unestic science, dress cutting and sewing, Eancy needle-work, basketry - in fact, all cla>se^ of industrial work, many of which are already taught at the institution, will be taught in this building. The instruction will be under the direction of a graduate of Pratt Institute or some similar school of equal standing. The Home has a library which now amounts to about 2,000 volumes. The ladies' clubs throughout the State have sin >wn much interest in this department of the Home by giving

Assembly Hall was built in 1904. for the accommodation of the population of the institution, at a cost of $25,000.00. Besides the spacious auditorium, the building contains a bathing pool, hot and cold shower baths, dressing rooms and toilet rooms. It is the intention to equip a gymnasium in the building in the near future.

There are a number of other buildings that should be considered in this connection. In 1 878 a brick pump and boiler house was erected for the purpose of supplying the buildings comprising the institution with water. For this purpose the Legislature had appropriated $25,000.00. The same year a gas plant was established from an appropriation of $3,000.00. In the winter of 1883, the building and gasometer, with its attachments were destroyed by fire, but were immediately rebuilt from an appropriation of $1,050.00 for this purpose made by the Legislature. This was replaced in 1898 by the present splendid acetylene gas plant.

The next building erected was a boiler house, in which was placed a battery of boilers for the purpose of heating the buildings from one central point. This building was completed in 1882, but did not seem to answer all the requirements of the Home. The Board of Trustees, being impressed with the importance of a system of water-works, both for protection from fire and to supply water for domestic purposes, requested in their annual report of 1882 an appropriation of $20,- 000.00 for this purpose, and on April 17, 1883, secured the following: "For change of steambeating and water-works, $24,000.00." The power or engine and boiler-house was located 1 m the river bank. The boiler and other machinery were transferred to the new location, and the present system of steam-heating and water-works was completed early in [884. With little expense, the old boiler-house was converted into a general laundry. Recently this has been equipped with the most modern at an expense of $3,000.00, .is now used as a Detention House. It is a two-story frame building, located on a delightful elevation in the southeast part of the Home lot. A new hospital is to be erected under the provisions of a special act passed by the Legislature on January 16, 1908, authorizing the Board of Trustees to employ an architect and proceed to construct and equip a suitable and adequate hospital, to cost not to exceed $30,000.00.

In 1891, the Grocery and Cold Storage Plant was built at an expense of $1,200. This will soon be equipped with refrigerating machinery to provide cold storage and to manufacture the ice used at the instituton, thus rendering it independent of the uncertain natural ice supply. There is also a central bake-oven, where all the bread, to the amount of 600 to 1,000 loaves per day, is baked by the pupils at the Home.

There is a spacious barn and other farm buildings. Part of the milk consumed at the institution is produced by a small dairy of about sixteen cows, and most of the vegetables consumed by the present population are produced on the farm.

The following men have served as superintendent of the institution: Dr. John Nichols of Geauga County was the first to hold the office; in 1S77. he retired and Dr. Ralph Hills of Delaware was appointed to the position, which he fdled until his death in October, 1879. He was succeeded by Rev. Nathan Smith, D. D., who served until 1881, when Dr. D. R. Miller was appointed to the office. Colonel James M. Crawford was the next suoerintenclent. taking charge December 15, 1884. We are indebted to this highly esteemed citizen of Delaware for the data regarding the early history of the institution as given in these columns. In March. 1889, Colonel Crawford resigned. His successor was Captain Albert W. Stiles, who helil the position for fourteen mouths, when Colonel Crawford was reinstated in the position, which he held for two years, until 1902. He then resigned, and Captain Stiles was again appointed superintendent, remaining in office until April 1, 1904, when the present efficient superintendent, Thomas F. Dye, was appointed.

Few people have any idea of the great good accomplished by this institution. Hundreds of the girls who have been trained here are now the wives of prosperous men in nearly every walk in life. Many are married to successful farmers in this and neighboring counties. One is the wife of a prosperous business man in Cleveland, and a very active worker in the Methodist Episcopal Church; another went to New Mexico, where she married an important railroad official. A young woman who has made for herself a reputation as a writer of poetry and prose, was developed from the ranks of these girls; another married a millionaire and shines in society; still another has been a successful school teacher for the past nine years in Marion County, having earned for herself the means to pay for her advanced instruction. A superintendent of a large department in an extensive business came from the home, and the number of such young ladies who hold positions of responsibility and trust in the business world is almost legion.

From the time he was superintendent of the Home, Col. J. M. Crawford and his good wife until her death, has kept in touch with a large number of the girls who came under their care. We wish we could reproduce even a few of the hundreds of letters, many of them of recent date, which he has received from them, but we forbear doing so, as we have refrained from relating the intensely interesting and romantic experiences of some of the young ladies to whom we have alluded, rather than take any chance of embarrassing them in the present high positions which they hold in the social and business world.

Many of the girls wdio are brought to the Home, are not. according to the provisions of the Act creating the institution, proper subjects for commitment here. In many cases, step-fathers or step-mothers, wishing to shirk the expense or responsibility of caring for their step-children, trump up charges on which they are committed to the Home. One such

A man brought a bright, honest-appearing little girl to the Home, who had been committed on a charge of stealing. While the man was being shown about the institution, the Colonel learned the girl's side of the story, and had his suspicions confirmed. The offences of which she was guilty were of the sugar and pie-stealing class, such as most of us have committed during a certain period in our lives. Colonel Crawford confronted the man with the facts, saying: "You are simply this girl's step-father, and you are trying to get rid of her." The Colonel also told him a few things that every such person ought to hear. It developed that the man and the girl's mother were going to Europe, and the man said that when they came back, he would come and claim the child. He was informed that he was unworthy of the child, and that if he left her at the Home, its authority to keep her until she was of age would be enforced. The man left in high dudgeon, and Colonel Crawford immediately commenced an investigation. He found that two brothers of the girl had been disposed nf in a similar manner, and also found that there was some property in the family. The Colonel had a friend who was a reporter mi uiie nf the Cleveland papers, to whom he told the story, requesting the reporter to try to discover who owned the property. Nothing nmre was heard of the matter, until, one day, the paper came out with flaring headlines - "An Heiress in the Girls' Industrial Home." The article, which occupied considerable space, told the story and explained that the girl's mother was a property owner. Someone sent copies of the paper to the girl's grandmother in Ballybeen Park, in the north of Ireland, who at once began a correspondence with the superintendent of the Home. She was entertaining the child's mother and step-father, and had been given the impression that the children were being cared for at boarding-school. I pon learning the facts, the old lady offered to provide a home for her granddaughter, and was told that the institution would be glad to relinquish the child to her, if she would furnish satisfactory evidence of her ability to care properly for her. The evidence, together with her formal application, came in the shape ol a letter of highest recommendation from a member of Parliament, and another letter from the American consul at Belfast, speaking in highest terms of the grandmother, and offering the services of his son, who was about to return to America, in seeing the girl properly searted on her ocean voyage. Uppn his arrival in this country, the young man came to the Home after the girl. In the meantime, the developments in the case had made it seem desirable for her mother and step-father to cut short their visit in Ireland and return home; but the girl had no irresistible impulse to call upon them as she passed through Cleveland on her way to New York. There she was placed aboard a steamship by her escort and placed in charge of a chaperone, and safely started for Ballybeen Park, the home of her well-to-do and generous-hearted ancestor. The last that was heard from the young lady, she was attending a college, where it would have been embarrassing for her to continue to receive correspondence on the stationery of the "Girls' Industrial Home."

The institution was established as a "school for the instruction, employment and reformation of exposed, helpless, evil-disposed and vicious girls." Girls between the ages of nine and seventeen years may be committed to the Home for ( i ) committing any offense known to the laws of Ohio, punishable by fine or imprisonment, other than imprisonment for life: (2) any girl leading an idle, vagrant or vicious life: ( 3 ) or if found in any street, highway or public place in circumstances of want and suffering, or neglect, exposure or abandonment, or of beggary, or truancy. Every girl so committed shall be kept, disciplined; instructed, employed and governed until she be either reformed and discharged, or shall be bound out as an apprentice or servant, or shall have attained the age of twenty-one years. All commitments to be made by the probate judge of the county having jurisdiction. The object of the institution is to instruct the ignorant, to aid the unfortunate, to reform the erring, to lift up the fallen, and to furnish a home for the exposed and friendless of tender age, where the_\ may be kindly cared for, trained to habits of industry and receive such intellectual and mural culture as to fit them for respectable positions in society.

In seeking to attain these aims, the present management has reorganized the institution in many particulars. All uniformity in matters of dress, etc., such as will be found in many similar institutions, is carefully avoided. So far as is practicable, an effort is made to develop the individual taste of each girl. The pupils have been classified and graded according to their age ami merits, both from the standpoint of conduct and mental ability. It is felt that the skirls are at the Home, not for punishment, but to receive training and coi tion. Each is therefore placed upon her honor, and made to feel that some responsibility rests upon her. Under this system of classification, the most worthy girls to the number of sixtysix live in the "Honor Cottage." Thus tinpupils admitted to the Home have an opportunity to rise to a point of proficiency, where they are recommended by the superintendent to the Board of Trustees for positions, and under his recommendation, some of the pupils are now holding salaried positions in the institution. It is predicted that the time is not far distant when the institution will be entirely self-sustaining, so far as expense for labor is concerned, through the work done by pupils.