SOLDIERS' ORPHANS' SCHOOL
AT CHESTER SPRINGS
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE
PENNSYLVANIA COMMISSION
OF SOLDIERS' ORPHAN SCHOOLS
FOR THE YEAR-ENDING MAY 31, 1904
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To the Senate and House of
Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania:
Gentlemen: Herewith, as required by the act of Assembly, is
presented the Report of the Soldiers' Orphan Schools Commission having
charge of the proper conduct of the schools authorized by the law of the
State. This report will show the condition of the schools for the
year ending May 31, 1904.
On May 31, 1903, there were 1,032 pupils enrolled, and on May 31, 1904,
there were 950, showing a decrease in that period of 82. This
concludes the fortieth year of the existence of these schools and the
fifteenth year under the management of a commission.
During the past school year there has been no epidemic of disease.
Of course there is always more or less sickness, and always will be, among
children congregated as we have them in the schools, and that we have been
enabled to escape the different epidemics disease which have swept over
the State from time to time can be credited to the watchfulness and care
shown by the employes of the different schools.
The action of the State in continuing these schools for al the years since
the close of the war has been, in the judgment of this commission, a wise
and commendable one. When we stop to consider that there have been
nearly 20,000 boys and girls educated and cared for in these schools, many
of whom now fill honorable and responsible positions, we cannot help but
declare that this grand old Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is true to her
sons who offered their lives to protect her honor and integrity.
The children coming into the schools now are very young and as we have
before stated, it must necessarily be some years before they can be
finally discharged. That means the ultimate concentration of all the
children at the Industrial School at Scotland, Franklin county, Pa.
At this school they can be taught some things which will aid them in the
battle of this life. The boys and girls work in the printing office,
the tailoring department and in the laundry. Boys are also employed
in the wood-working department, machine shop, engine room and learning the
intricacies of electricity and farming. The girls are instructed in
housework and dressmaking; and boys and girls are taught telegraphy,
typewriting and stenography. Many of the pupils who have graduated
from the schools are employed in the different railway offices, telegraph
offices, and in business offices throughout the State.
In each of the three schools military training is given the boys and they
are then taught the value of discipline and obedience which, in the
struggle of life, is of paramount importance.
Farms are also attached to each school, upon which is raised a large
portion of the vegetables used, such as potatoes, corn, onions, etc.
The following is the population of the schools for the year ending May 31,
1904:
Chester Springs............ 194 (boys) 134
(girls) 328 (total)
Uniontown.................... 219 (boys) 104
(girls) 323 (total)
Industrial...................... 180 (boys) 119
(girls) 299 (total)
Total ..........................
593
357
950
The members of the commission, all of whom are members of the Grand Army
of the Republic, desire, at this time, to express to the Legislature, and
through them to the people of the State, their appreciation of the
patriotic spirit that has kept alive this wise and beneficent
system. It is an authoritive declaration to all who may follow that
Pennsylvania never tires in performing a patriotic duty. While it
has cost money to continue this system, yet to the minds of the members of
this commission, the State could expend no money which will bring back a
greater reward in the future than that of caring for the children who may
be unfortunate enough not to have the care or protection of parents and
friends. If left to wander and grow up without some discipline being
enforced, in after yeas it would bring about such a state of affairs in
society that it would cost the State more money in providing reformatory
and correctional institutions than it has done to provide these
homes. We do not mean to say by this that this class of children is
confined exclusively to those of the soldiers of the War of the Rebellion,
but they belong to all classes of society.
In conclusion, gentlemen, the commission makes an earnest request of the
members of the Legislature, the Grand Army of the Republic, the clergy,
members of the press, and in fact citizens in all the walks of life to
visit these institutions and see for themselves what this commission is
endeavoring to do for those committed to their charge. Attached
hereto you will find the tabulated statements of all matter connected with
the schools, which will give, in detail, all the information as to the
conduct of the schools that may be desired.
Every members of the present commission is a comrade of the Grand Army of
the Republic, as follows:
Governor Samuel W. Pennypacker, ex-officio.
On the Part of the Senate of Pennsylvania:
Jacob C. Stineman. Andrew G. Williams.
On the Part of the House of Representatives:
Thomas V. Cooper. John H. Riebel.
Ira F. Mansfield.
On the Part of the Grand Army of the Republic:
Thomas G. Sample. Levi G.
McCauley. James F.
Morrison. Thad M. Mahon.
Richard H. Holgate.
Respectfully submitted,
SAML. W. PENNYPACKER, President
RICHARD H. HOLGATE, Secretary.
SCHOOL FACULTY
AND EMPLOYES.
For the Year Ending May 31,
1904
CHESTER SPRINGS SCHOOL.
OFFICERS.
Dr. M. B. Hughes,
superintendent
Miss M. E. White, matron
Mrs. S. J. Brown, assistant matron
John A. Barrett, military instructor
John R. Wells, physician.
EDUCATIONAL DEPARTMENT
PRINCIPAL
Ira D. McCord.
TEACHERS.
Miss Bertha M. Holgate.
Miss Helen E. Buohl.
Miss Katharine Quinlan.
Miss Margaret A. Harbaugh.
Miss Annie J. Wharton.
Miss Margaret Brisbin.
Miss M. Elsie Dalbey.
Miss Junia M. Wall.
OTHER EMPLOYES.
Miss Leah Shellenberger,
sewing room.
Miss Margaret Irwin, assistant sewing room.
Mary Scott Sloan, assistant sewing room.
Mrs. Marie P. Hartweg, boys' mending.
Miss Elizabeth E. Koons, girls' mending.
Mrs. M. E. Root, dining room.
Miss Minnie Rumberger, assistant dining room.
Mrs. S. E. Garis, dormitories.
Mrs. E. L. Jefferis, dormitories.
Mrs. L. H. Richards, nurse.
C. A. Broome laundryman.
Ella R. Sloyer, assistant laundress.
Edith Shaffner, assistant laundress.
Thomas O. K. Robarts, baker.
Mrs. Lovena Hunter, cook.
Viola G. Campbell, cook.
F. H. Hartwig, engineer.
F. P. Barrett, cobbler
Samuel E. Rankin, stenographer.
George M. Hazlett, teamster.
Lloyd R. Ammerman, fireman.
Olive Holderman, general utility.
George H. Jefferis, carpenter
Cortland M. Fell, watchman.
Lawrence Reagan, fireman.
ROSTER OF
CHILDREN
IN THE
Soldiers' Orphan Schools
of
PENNSYLVANIA.
JUNE 1, 1904
KEY= Name of Pupil; Date of
Birth; Date of Order for Admission; School; Father, dead or living; Mother
dead or living.; Name of Father; Rank; Co.; Regt.; State; Application by;
PO Address of Applicant
Carbon Co.
Britton, Charles A., Aug. 28, 1891; Mar.16,1899; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Israel Britton; Pvt; G; 104th; Pa.; Senia Britton; Mauch Chunk
Smith, Charles H.; July 14, 1888; Oct. 25, 1897; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Francis Smith; Pvt.; A; 66th; Pa.; Catherine F. Smith; Parryville
Smith, Annie E.; Nov. 23, 1890; Sept. 5, 1898; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Francis Smith; Pvt; F; 9th; Pa.; Catherine F. Smith; Bowmanstown.
Smith, Jennie C., Apr 5, 1892; Sept. 5, 1898; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Francis Smith; Pvt; F; 9th; Pa.; Catherine F. Smith; Bowmanstown.
Centre Co.
Bradley, James I.; Jul 30, 1890; Dec. 12, 1898; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Philip Bradley; Pvt; H; 4th; Pa.; Elizabeth E. Bradley; Axeman.
Garis, Louise; Dec. 30, 1892; Mar. 26, 1902; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Charles H. Garis; Sergt.; B; 5th; Pa.; S. Emma Garis; Axeman.
Swab, Joseph E., May 8, 1890; Mar. 25, 1898; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Edward Swab; Pvt; F; 148th; Pa; J. Kennedy Johnston; Bellefonte
Walker, Mina; May 10, 1896; Mar. 26, 1902; Chester Springs; Dead; Living;
Ellis I. Walker; Pvt; K; 82d; Pa; John S. Longwell; Milesburg
Walker, Max P. P.; Jan 7, 1898; Dec. 27, 1902; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Ellis I Walker; Pvt; K; 82d; Pa; John S. Longwell; Milesburg.
Chester Co.
Cole, Okie P.; Sep 16, 1888; June 1, 1895; Chester Springs; Dead; Living;
Philip Cole; Pvt; D; 6th; USCT; Margaret W. Cole; West Chester
Cole, Rufus J.; Apr 3, 1891; Mar. 16, 1899; Chester Springs; Dead; Living;
Philip Cole; Pvt; D; 6th; USCT; Margaret Butcher; West Chester
Cole, Elijah; Jan 23, 1890; June 8, 1903; Chester Springs; Dead; Living;
Josiah Cole; Pvt; B; 54th; Mass; Harriet I. Cole; West Chester
Cole, Elisha C.; July 3, 1894; June 8, 1903; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Josiah Cole; Pvt.; B; 54th; Mass; Harriet I Cole; West Chester.
Cole, Charles A.; Oct 16, 1892; July 20, 1903; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Philip Cole; Pvt; D; 6th; USCT; Margaret Butcher; West Chester.
Dunlap, Albert; Sep 20, 1891; Mar. 23, 1903; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Evan D. Dunlap; Sergt.; Marines; USN; Lillian A. D. Gilbert; West
Chester
Fulmen, Milton F.; Oct. 29, 1892; Feb. 10, 1904; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; William F. Fulmer; Lieut.; C; Lt. Bat., Pa; Annie L. Fulmer;
Phoenixville.
Fulmer, Merion F.; Jan 23, 1899; Apr 21, 1904; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; William F. Fulmer; Lieut; C; Lt. Bat, Pa; Annie L. Fulmer;
Phoenixville.
Groff, Theodore; Jun 29, 1890; Mar. 7, 1902; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Isaac Groff; Pvt; A; 1st; Pa; William McElroy; Saint Peters.
Love, Henry; Mar. 28, 1893; Sep. 16, 1897; Chester Springs; Living; Dead;
James Love; Pvt.; D; 58th; Pa; John L. Smith; Chester Spr'gs.
Maples, John J.; Oct. 24, 1896; Nov. 17, 1902; Chester Springs; Living;
Dead; Joseph R. Maples; Pvt; F; 8th; US Cav.; Plummer E. Jefferis; West
Chester.
Stringfellow, Sarah J.; Dec. 8, 1892; Sep 11, 1899; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Joseph G. Stringfellow; Pvt.; Pvt.; H; 120th; Pa; Nathan Wilson;
Downingtown.
Clearfield Co.
Calhoun, Ernest L.; Apr 15, 1893; Aug. 1, 1900; Chester Springs; Living;
Dead; Robert Calhoun; Pvt; C; 7th; Pa. Cav; Robert Calhoun; Allport.
Hopkins, Esther L.; Apr 15, 1893; Jan. 17, 1903; Chester Springs; Dead;
Dead; Lionel A. Hopkins; Pvt.; Pvt; G; 77th; Pa; J. M. Beers; Coalport.
Mattingly, Ignatius S.; Oct. 7, 1894; Aug. 14, 1903; Chester Springs;
Dead; Living; Wm. H. H. Mattingly; Sgt; D; 9th; Ind.; M S. Bookwalter;
Clearfield.
Mattingly, Ann M.,; Sep 28, 1896; Aug. 12, 1903; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Wm. H. H. Mattingly; Sgt; D; 9th; Ind.; M. S. Bookwalter;
Clearfield.
Mattingly, Wm. E.; Sep 17, 1897; Aug. 14, 1903; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Wm. H. H. Mattingly; Sgt; D; 9th; Ind.; M. S. Bookwalter;
Clearfield.
Myers, Frederick T.,; Jun 29, 1892; Jun 10, 1899; Chester Springs; Living;
Dead; Henry Myers; Pvt.; E; 52d; Pa.; Henry Myers; Osceola Mills.
Myers, Nora C.; Jul 11, 1895; Aug. 1, 1900; Chester Springs; Living; Dead;
Henry Myers; Pvt.; E; 52d; Pa.; Henry Myers; Osceola Mills.
Stare, Cyrus M.; Mar. 14, 1895; Nov. 7, 1902; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; John Stare; Corp.; H; 56th; Pa.; Nora E. Kephart; Kephart.
Stare, Reynolds; May 3, 1897; Nov. 7, 1902; Chester Springs; Dead; Living;
John Stare; Corp.; H; 56th; Pa.; Nora E. Kephart; Kephart.
Clinton Co.
Kriger, Annie; Feb. 14, 1893; July 24, 1902; Chester Springs; Dead; Dead;
Henrich Kriger; Pvt.; Pvt.; G; 45th; Wis.; R. N. Martin; Renovo.
Kriger, Laura; July 20, 1895; July 24, 1902; Chester Springs; Dead; Dead;
Henrich Kriger; Pvt.; G; 45th; Wis.; R. N. Martin; Renovo.
Kriger, Thomas E.; Sep 26, 1896; July 24, 1902; Chester Springs; Dead;
Dead; Henrich Kriger; Pvt; G; 45th; Wis.; R. N. Martin; Renovo.
Northumberland Co.
Moyer, Susannah H.; Aug. 22, 1893; Apr 6, 1901; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; John B. Moyer; Corp.; G; 6th; Pa. Ca.; Ages Moyer; Shamokin.
Moyer, Elmer H.; Feb. 4, 1895; Apr 6, 1901; Chester Springs; Dead; Living;
John B. Moyer; Corp.;G; 6th; Pa. Ca.; Ages Moyer; Shamokin.
Penman, Stuart; Apr 2, 1892; Mar 31, 1903; Chester Springs; Living; Dead;
Mungo Penman; Pvt.; E; 48th; Pa.; Mungo Penman; Mt. Carmel.
Reed, Howard B.; July 31, 1891; July 31, 1897; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; David A. Reed; Pvt.; D; 93d; Pa.; Emmeline Reed; Shamokin.
Stevenson, Lovena L.; Dec. 31, 1892; Mar. 26, 1902; Chester Springs;
Living; Living; William Stevenson; Pvt.; E; 12th; Pa.; William Stevenson;
Northumb'd
Stevenson, Raymon; July 6, 1894; Mar. 26, 1902; Chester Springs; Living;
Living; William Stevenson; Pvt.; E; 12th; Pa.; William Stevenson;
Northumb'd
Stevenson, George; July 8, 1896; Mar. 26, 1902; Chester Springs; Living;
Living; William Stevenson; Pvt.; E; 12th; Pa.; William Stevenson;
Northumb'd
Stevenson, William; Sep 15, 1889; Aug 12, 1902; Chester Springs; Living;
Living; William Stevenson; Pvt.; E; 12th; Pa.; William Stevenson;
Northumb'd
Weimer, William R.; July 4, 1893; Jan. 9, 1902; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; George Y. Weimer; Pvt.; C; 131st; Pa.; Kate S. Weimer; Sunbury.
Perry Co.
Currie, Maggie M.; Apr 15, 1891; June 13, 1896; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Robert C. Currie; Pvt.; G; 11th; Pa. Cav.; Directors of Poor;
Loysville.
Philadelphia County.
Burke, Josephine S.; May 26, 1891; Apr 21, 1904; Chester Springs; Dead;
Dead; Edward D. Burks; Pvt.; D; 23d; Pa.; Catharine J. Snowden;
Philadelphia.
Burke, Gertrude T.; Feb. 6, 1893; Apr. 21, 1904; Chester Springs; Dead;
Dead; Edward D. Burks; Pvt.; D; 23d; Pa.; Catharine J. Snowden;
Philadelphia.
Burke, John N. S.; Jan 30, 1896; Apr. 21, 1904; Chester Springs; Dead;
Dead; Edward D. Burks; Pvt.; D; 23d; Pa.; Catharine J. Snowden;
Philadelphia.
Callender, Henry; Feb. 19. 1891; Mar. 20, 1901; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Judson Callender; Pvt.; F; 51st; Pa.; Anie Callender;
Philadelphia.
Denning, Harry H. B.; Dec. 14, 1889; Mar. 16, 1899; Chester Springs;
Living; Living; Albert S. Denning; Corp.; H; 114th; Pa.; Albert S.
Denning; Sold'rs' Home, Va.
Durr, Thomas M., Jr.; Apr 15, 1893; Jan. 13, 1904; Chester Springs;
Living; Dead; Thomas M. Durr; Pvt.; H; 4th; Pa. Cav.; Thomas M. Durr;
Philadelphia.
Durr, Frank M.; Feb. 12, 1895; Jan. 13, 1904; Chester Springs; Living;
Dead; Thomas M. Durr; Pvt.; H; 4th; Pa. Cav.; Thomas M. Durr;
Philadelphia.
Durr, Harry McK.; Oct. 28, 1896; Jan. 13, 1904; Chester Springs; Living;
Dead; Thomas M. Durr; Pvt.; H; 4th; Pa. Cav.; Thomas M. Durr;
Philadelphia.
Elliott, Isabella; Mar. 9, 1891; Jan. 9, 1902; Chester Springs; Dead;
Dead; John Elliott; Pvt.; I; 127th; USCI; M. Luther Nicholas;
Philadelphia.
Fleisher, Maximillion; Mar. 11, 1888; Mar. 24, 1900; Chester Springs;
Dead; Living; Max Fleisher; Pvt.; F; 3d; US Cav.; Leidy Fleisher;
Philadelphia.
Johnston, Hillery W.; Jun 19, 1890; Jun 10, 1899; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; James A. Johnston; Pvt.; G; 5th; Mass. Cav.; Mary M. Stansberry;
Germantown.
Jones, Florence O.; Oct 13, 1890; Sep 28, 1903; Chester Springs; Dead;
Living; Samuel Jones; Sgt.; C; 29th Conn.; Mary A. Jones; Philadelphia.
Lynch, Charles L.; Feb. 8, 1895; Jul 29, 1902; Chester Springs; Living;
Living; John R. Lynch; Pvt.; B; 6th; Pa. Cav.; John R. Lynch;
Philadelphia.
McFadden, Albert O.; Mar. 28, 1891; Jul. 23, 1903; Chester Springs;
Living; Dead; John McFadden; Lieut.; E; 81st; Pa.; John McFadden;
Philadelphia.
McFadden, Howard J.; Jul 11, 1893; Jul 23, 1903; Chester Springs Living;
Dead; John McFadden; Lieut.; E; 81st; Pa.; John McFadden; Philadelphia.
Peak, James C.; Oct 16, 1894; Apr 27, 1903; Chester Springs; Living;
Living; Thomas R. Peak; Pvt.; F; 67th; Pa.; Thomas R. Peak; Nat. Mil.
Home, Va.
Peak, Clara C.; Aug 24, 1899; Apr 27, 1903; Chester Springs; Living;
Living; Thomas R. Peak; Pvt.; F; 67th; Pa.; Thomas R. Peak; Nat. Mil.
Home, Va.
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE INSPECTRESS.
To the Honorable Commission of
Soldiers' Orphan Schools:
The duties of your inspectress during the year ending June 30, 1904, were
mainly confined to those of ordinary routine. There was no unusual
episode that transpired which called for extra exertions or imperiled the
health or safety of the scholars. To this statement, however, one
exception may be noted, viz.: the outbreak of measles which took
place at Jumonville School during the winter of 1903 and 1904.
Fortunately, there were no deaths nor permanent disabilities, a result
which certainly can be attributed in a large degree to the medical care
and supervision exercised at the time of the outbreak. It is to be
noted in connection with the subject of health that the object of the
Commission has been to ascertain the individual physical needs of each
pupil, and, whenever necessary, to transfer them to the care of a
specialist, or to hospitals where the best possible treatment can be
accorded. A reference to the reports of the several physicians
attached to the schools will no doubt illustrate the number and character
of such cases.
Apart from the general good health of the pupils at the various schools,
it should be noted that during the last year much progress has been made
in the condition affecting their comfort, and in promoting their general
welfare. These may be summed up in the form of alterations and
repairs to the various buildings, and in regulations governing their
conditions.
These alterations, which it is unnecessary to specify in detail, embrace
the means of better ventilation and drainage, and more spacious
accommodation of the pupils.
Notwithstanding these various improvements, your inspectress feels that
she would be deficient in her duty if she did not again call attention to
the advisability of concentrating the pupils at the Scotland
institution. This was the original design, and as time goes by, it
would seem to be the part of wisdom to carry out the original plan.
However healthy and suitable the establishments at other points in the
interior of the State may appear, yet there are undoubted and
unquestionable advantages in concentrating the schools at one central
point. Without wishing to infringe upon the province of the
Commission, it is to be hoped that the lawmaking powers of the State will
see fit to grant such means and facilities to the Commission as will
enable it to build cottages, or to enlarge the present accommodations at
Scotland, at an early date.
A reference to the detailed reports of those entrusted with the technical
education of the children will show a number of varied industries, all of
them useful and none of which should be abandoned. It has been a
subject of serious thought, however, to your inspectress, whether in the
female department there should not be established a new branch of industry
and tuition. It is difficult to explain the exact requirements of
this new plan, except to say that it should embrace instruction in such
matters of domestic science, economy, and management as will enable the
girl pupils upon their entry into domestic life to manage and control
their households. While a knowledge of the various trades is
essential to enable the male pupils to earn their subsistence, it is
certainly of equal importance that the future wives should also learn the
trade of housekeeping. It is needless to enlarge upon this subject,
but it is to be hoped that the Commission will see its way toward the
establishment of a department of domestic science.
Your inspectress has intentionally refrained from entering into details of
the different institutions, knowing that all such information will be
embraced in the reports of the heads of the different departments, but it
is worth noting as a general summary that the operations of all the
schools during the past year have been conducted with vigor and
success. Not a single critic has appeared to make complaint of any
action of the Commission or any of its officials, nor is there any reason
to believe that any interest affecting the health, education or comfort of
these wards of the State has been forgotten or neglected.
Very respectfully,
LAURA P. SWENTZEL,
Inspectress.
Philadelphia, August 30, 1904.
INSPECTOR'S
REPORT.
West Chester, Pa., September
30, 1904.
To the Commission of Soldiers' Orphan Schools, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania:
Gentlemen: I have the honor to present my sixth annual report as
inspector of the Soldiers' Orphan Schools.
In doing so it gives me pleasure to be able to refer to the past year as a
well-balanced one, in which no department of the work has so predominated
as to be a detriment to the others, but one in which all have been given
due interest and consideration.
Nor has the physical and moral well-being of the boys and girls been
neglected, and it is our particular pride that the general health,
appearance and happiness of the children is beyond questions, and that
they generally regret leaving school.
While walking along the street in New York recently, I was most agreeably
surprised at being greeted by a young colored girl who was a recent pupil
of the schools. She wished to know all about the boys and girls from
the school from which she came and spoke of the happy days she had spent
there. We are proud to feel that the State has been able to develop
the schools so that this kind of a report may be made.
My monthly visits to the schools during the year included a thorough
inspection of the grounds, buildings, outbuildings, a careful observation
of everything connected with the kitchen, dining rooms, hospitals,
lavatories, etc., etc.; a careful examination of the food furnished and
the preparation of it; a close scrutiny of the appearance of the children;
and a careful inspection of the "boys' line;" the clothing and
shoes worn by them, etc., etc.; visits to the class rooms, observing the
ventilation and methods of instruction and discipline of the children.
In September, 1903, there were 991 pupils in all. In June, 1904, (at
the end of the year) there were 946; a loss of 45, taking into
consideration of the admissions and discharges during the year. On
the above computation about 90 will not return on account of the age
limit.
As the Commission keeps in touch with the many details of the schools, I
have purposely avoided mentioning the many things which have been covered
in my monthly and special reports.
No serious epidemic has occurred, and the children have been well.
The fire-drill is still practiced at all the schools, so that in case of
fire the boys could be depended upon to take their places in certain
positions in the buildings and use their best efforts to prevent
excitement and confusion while the children are getting out of the
building; the fire-drill interests them to such an extent that it is
thought they would not think of danger, but quietly pass out of the
building in an orderly manner. In case of fire in the girls'
department, the boys, in charge of the military instructor, are taught to
go to the assistance of the girls. At the bugle call for fire, the
dormitories can be emptied in about two and a half minutes.
I wish there could be devised some systems whereby things taught at the
schools could be carried on more fully in some of our technical schools or
colleges. Would it not be possible, in view of the many State
appropriations, to get scholarships established at such places, open to
those students of the orphan schools who show the greatest ability of
being able to profit by them? Are there not openings at great
concerns likes Cramps, Westinghouse, etc., etc., where our boys from the
Industrial School might find entrance and opportunity? With the
perfectly organized influence of the members of the Commission and other
friends of the schools, such openings might be provided each year.
Our libraries are sadly in need of replenishing. Their condition has
been very unsatisfactory for several years, and as there seems to be great
demand for the few worn out books, new ones would certainly be very
welcome to the children.
The following is an extract from the Harrisburg Telegraph:
"This was commencement day at the State Industrial School at Scotland
and the interesting exercises were creditable to the faculty, the students
and the institution. Each year demonstrates anew the wisdom of the
Commonwealth in establishing this school and each year further
demonstrates the necessity for enlarging its scope and preparing for the
great work which is at hand in the industrial training of the orphans of
soldiers and of those who may follow them.
"A large assemblage witnessed the first day's exercises yesterday
(June 20, 1904), including many distinguished visitors from all parts of
the State. Among those who were present and made addresses were
General Thomas J. Stewart, Colonel Thos. G. Sample, Senator Williams, of
Butler; Representative Mansfield, of Beaver county, and other members of
the Commission. The exercises in the gymnasium were of a high order
of excellence, the singing, recitations and the orations being equal to
the best that might be expected of any first-class college or academy.
"The site of the school is one of the most delightful to be found
anywhere, and the health of the boys and girls shows the wisdom of the
location. There were many visitors of the G.A.R. among the throng,
including Captain John C. Gerbig, of Chambersburg; John Eckel, commander
of the Post at Chambersburg; Senator Alexander Stewart, Captain Miller, of
Carlisle and others.
"An incident of the exercises yesterday was the suggestion of one of
the speakers that the Legislature be asked for an appropriation to build
an assembly hall, which is needed. The suggestion was received with
tremendous enthusiasm by the visitors and students, and it is believed
that some steps will be taken to secure such a hall."
There is much more that might be said, but I think I have given a general
idea of the condition of the schools. Of course, there have been
little matters requiring adjustment and criticism during the year, but
these have been attended to promptly, and I feel that it is not necessary
to call further attention to them.
It remains for me to congratulate the members of the Commission on the
generally commendable condition of the schools and to thank them for their
assistance and personal interest in this work.
Very respectfully submitted,
S. G. WILLAUER,
Inspector.
REPORTS OF SUPERINTENDENTS.
SOLDIERS' ORPHAN SCHOOL, CHESTER SPRINGS.
Chester Springs, Pa., June 30,
1904.
Commission Soldiers' Orphan Schools, Harrisburg, Pa.:
Gentlemen: I beg leave to submit the fourteenth annual report of the
Chester Springs Soldiers' Orphan School.
Upon assuming the superintendency of the school, I found upon its roll,
June 30, 1903, 379 pupils. There were admitted during the year
just closed, June 30, 1904, 81 pupils on order, making a total on the roll
for the year 460. During the same period there were discharged on
age, 32; on order, 12; and by transfer to the Industrial School at
Scotland, Pa., 85; making a total of 129 pupils discharged. To this
number must be added the loss of three by death, making the number taken
from our roll 132, leaving on the roll at the close of the year 328.
During the year we had a number of cases of illness of a very serious
character, notably two of typhoid fever, one of scarlet fever, three of
pneumonia, two of diphtheria, and two of membraneous croup, besides more
than a hundred cases of measles; yet, owing to the skill of our physician,
blessed by a Divine Providence, no death occurred from any acute disease,
while the care with which those whose illness was of a contagious nature
were isolated, together with the free use of antiseptics, prevented the
spread of contagion.
Of the three deaths reported above, two of them, Mary Coil, eight years
old, of Susquehanna county, and Walter Cuff (colored), ten years old, of
Fulton county, died of marasmus (wasting disease) and Margaret Buckalew,
of Luzerne county, of heart disease, dying very suddenly after having
recovered from a light attack of measles.
While it is with deep regret that we have to report the loss of three
pupils by death, yet in view of the facts above stated the mortality has
been exceedingly small. Too much praise, cannot be given to our
physician, Dr. John R. Wells, for his untiring care and skilful and
successful treatment of the many cases under his charge during the year.
Although it proved utterly impossible to find the friends of either Mary
Coil or Walter Cuff, during their illness or after their death, yet gentle
hands administered to their comfort, beautiful flowers were placed on
their caskets, appropriate services held in the chapel and they were given
proper burial in the plot belonging to the school in East Vincent
Cemetery. The remains of Margaret Buckalew were taken to her home
for burial.
Our loss by death was not confined to the pupils referred to, for during
the year two of our respected employes were called away by the "Grim
Reaper." Mrs. Mary Bowers, of Harrisburg, of the sewing
department, after struggling with an almost indomitable will against the
ravages of disease, and working long after one with les energy would have
succumbed, was at last forced to yield and in the latter part of October
was called to her rest.
Major James P. Holt, known to and respected by all who have in any way
been connected with or interested in the Soldiers' Orphan Schools, by
reason of his long service extending over a period of fourteen years in
the schools, at Harford, Uniontown, and Chester Springs, like a brave
soldier that he was, stayed at his post long after the infirmities of
disease had rendered the discharge of duty not only wearisome, but well
nigh impossible, was forced finally to surrender, and after the first day
of January, 1904, never left his room but once until the twelfth day of
April, having answered the room but once until the twelfth day of April,
having answered the last roll-call, he was carried to the home of his
sister in Philadelphia, from whence he was buried. His unfailing
cheerfulness and courtesy, his high appreciation and exemplification of,
in his own life, all that was noble and manly, endeared him to all who
were in any way associated with him. By his death the soldiers'
orphan schools lost a valuable and valued employe. May his last
bivouac be an eternal rest.
During the year some improvements have been made, chief among which was
the remodeling of what was known as the "temporary" building
into a dormitory and play-room for the little boys, with a cosy room for
their matron. The basement was furnished with a large cedar tank
selected by Major McCauley, which has proved a great boon to the little
fellows. The separating of the little boys into a dormitory of their
own was a very wise thing to do, as it has added greatly to the welfare
and comfort of the little fellows, for which the Commission deserves great
praise.
The teachers' building was greatly improved by having a room furnished for
use as a parlor, and the rooms most needing it newly papered, painted and
carpeted.
The several holidays and holiday seasons were duly observed. The
first one, the glorious Fourth, was fittingly celebrated by the assembling
of the pupils and employes in the chapel where patriotic songs were sung
by the children, the Declaration of Independence read by the
Superintendent, and an appropriate address, suited to the understanding of
the pupils, made by Major Holt. On Christmas the Commission made
everybody happy by a most generous supply of candies, fruits and nuts and
directing the Superintendent to provide a bountiful Christmas
dinner. The day was one of unalloyed pleasure to all and was
fittingly closed by appropriate services in the chapel.
During the holidays, Mr. John O. K. Robarts, editor of the Phoenixville
Messenger, a true friend of the soldiers' orphans, accompanied by Miss
Goodwin, of Cranberry, N.J., a pianist, and Miss Widdecombe, of
Phoenixville, elocutionist, came up and gave the children, both big and
little, a most charming musical and literary treat; and at a later date,
accompanied by the blind pianist, Professor Wallace, Miss Widdecombe,
elocutionist and Misses Evans and Renard, singers, entertained us all
equally as charmingly. The holiday season closed with a phonograph
entertainment given by Comrade Wm. A. Stewart, assisted by his son, Wm. A.
Stewart, Jr. To Mr. Robarts, Comrade Stewart, and all who
accompanied them, the thanks of the management of the school are due, and
are hereby tendered for the kindly thoughtfulness in thus contributing to
the enjoyment of the children.
On Memorial Day the entire school, led by the band, marched to East
Vincent Cemetery and, after the usual services were held strewed with
flowers not only the graves of their fellow pupils, but also the graves of
all the soldiers who lie buried there. In the afternoon the
officers, teachers and other employes, with the children and a goodly
number of the citizens of the community, assembled in the chapel and after
the school had sung "My Country 'Tis of Thee," listened to an
able and to the pupils, (for it was intended particularly for them) a most
interesting address, delivered by the Hon. B. F. Hughes, of Philadelphia,
who kindly and cheerfully had responded to the invitation to deliver the
address.
Religious services, either Sunday-school or preaching by one of the
neighboring pastors on Sabbath, and chapel services on each week night,
have been observed during the year. Revs. Schnering and Miller have
kindly responded to invitations to address us.
I must not forget to mention the name of a former pupil of the school who
did much to enhance the pleasure of the children who were kept at the
school during vacation. Mr. George Benkhart, of Philadelphia,
remembering no doubt his vacation days, with his jacks and croquet sets
for the girls, and marbles and baseball outfits for the boys, especially
directing that they be given to those who had to spend their vacations at
school.
That the work done in the school-room was well done, and that the pupils
had profited by the instruction received, was evidenced not only by the
manner in which they acquitted themselves in their examination, and at the
"annual" exercises, but by the words of commendation from those
who were here to witness their work. Whatever measure of success has
been accomplished has been due to the unanimity of effort, and the harmony
existing among all those whose duty it is to care for an train the
children in preparing themselves for lives of usefulness. I would
like to refer in words of commendation to each teacher and employe
individually, and thus express my appreciation of the manner in which each
has performed his or her part in making this year a profitable one to the
school, and a most pleasant one to its Superintendent. I must,
however, on account of lack of space deny myself the pleasure and content
myself with a brief reference to a few heads of departments. The
farm, under the efficient management of Mr. George M. Hazlett, furnished
us with an abundance of fresh vegetables in their season. The
engine-room, kept bright and clean, with its machinery in perfect order,
furnishes abundant evidence that our engineer, Mr. F. H. Hartweg, is the
"right man in the right place"; our laundry, under the charge of
Mr. C. A. Broome, is second to none, while of the man who bakes our bread,
pies and cakes, I need only to say he has been doing the baking for the
soldiers' orphans for thirty years.
The girls' departments, under the tactful management of its most efficient
matron, Miss M. E. White, assisted by Mrs. S. J. Brown, is entitled to and
received the praise of all whose privilege it was to visit and inspect the
department. Perfect cleanliness and strict yet kindly discipline are
manifest everywhere.
Owing to the long illness and death of the military instructor, Major
Holt, the boys' department was for a part of the year practically without
a head, yet it received much praise from those who witnessed the
deportment of the boys, and the manner in which they acquitted themselves
in the military drill at "annual."
To the inspector, Major Willauer, and his most worthy and efficient
coadjutator, the inspectress, Mrs. Laura P. Swentzel, I am indebted for
many courtesies and helpful suggestions, for which I hereby tender my most
sincere thanks.
To the members of the Commission of Soldiers' Orphan Schools, I cannot
find words in which to adequately express my appreciation of the many
kindnesses received at their hands. The selection of such men to
have charge of the institutions established for the care and education of
the children of their late comrades has proven to have been a wise
one. Nothing that will advance the interests or conduce to the
welfare or comfort of the children, if asked for, is ever refused it if is
in their power to grant it.
Thanking you, gentlemen, for your uniform courtesy,
I am most respectfully yours,
DR. M. B. HUGHES,
Superintendent.
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