Hillcrest Center for Children records, 1956-1975

Collection context

Creator:
Hillcrest Center for Children (Bedford Hills, N.Y.)
Abstract:
This collection documents the foundation and operation of the Hillcrest Center for Children, a foster care institution that cared for children in Bedford Hills, NY from 1956 to 1977.
Extent:
4.5 linear feet (4 boxes)
Language:
English .
Scope and content:

Correspondence, memoranda, minutes, reports, and miscellaneous material including files of Katharine D. Brownell, M.D., 1963-1970; general files of the organization dealing with Hillcrest's relationship to various New York City and State agencies; minutes of the Board of Directors; and annual reports. Among the correspondents are New York City Mayors Robert F. Wagner, Jr., and John Vliet Lindsay.

Biographical / historical:

The Hillcrest Center for Children was a city-owned foster care institution. It was founded in 1956 by appointment of the mayor of New York City, Robert F. Wagner. Wagner also appointed the members of the board. Hillcrest was built in Bedford Hills, New York in a converted tuberculosis sanatorium.

The center accepted boys and girls between the ages of six and fourteen who were not considered appropriate candidates for state schools, residential treatment centers, institutions for disabled children, or foster family care. Hillcrest also housed children for shorter terms when foster homes or other institutions were unavailable, and then moved them when possible. Despite criticism, the center accepted children of all races and faiths in a mixed setting. It provided medical care, a school (PS#407 Manhattan at Hillcrest), play areas, and activities. It also placed great emphasis on psychiatric care and spiritual guidance and strived to make the children feel safe and included. Children were involved in decision-making processes; for example, both staff and children discussed rules at meetings to create the Hillcrest Code of Behavior.

Hillcrest made changes to its program over the years, and struggled continuously with staff shortages. The center closed in 1977.

Voluntary child care agency in Bedford Hills, N.Y. Katharine D. Brownell, M.D. was president of the Board of Directors. The Center ceased operations in 1977.

Access and use

Restrictions:

This collection is located off-site. You will need to request this material at least three business days in advance to use the collection in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library reading room.

Terms of access:

Reproductions may be made for research purposes. The RBML maintains ownership of the physical material only. Copyright remains with the creator and his/her heirs. The responsibility to secure copyright permission rests with the patron.

Preferred citation:

Identification of specific item; Date (if known); Hillcrest Center for Children records; Box and Folder; Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.

Location of this collection:
6th Floor East Butler Library
535 West 114th Street
New York, NY 10027, USA
Before you visit:
Researchers interested in viewing materials in the RBML reading room must must book an appointment at least 7 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, be sure to request your desired materials before booking your appointment, as researchers are limited to 5 items per day.
Contact:
rbml@library.columbia.edu