Society for the Relief of Half-Orphan and Destitute Children Records, 1836-1923, bulk 1853-1922
Collection context
- Creator:
- Society for the Relief of Half-Orphan and Destitute Children in the City of New York
- Abstract:
- This collection is comprised of a register of childrens' names and their backgrounds, agreements between the child's guardian and the Society, Executive Board minutes, application notes and lists of dismissed children.
- Extent:
- 1.47 linear feet 3.5 document boxes
- Language:
- English .
- Scope and content:
-
The records in this collection consist of a register of children and their background information, Executive Board meeting minutes, bound books of signed agreements between the parent and the Society, descriptive application notes of children and parents, and general correspondence.
- Biographical / historical:
-
The Society for the Relief of Half-Orphan and Destitute Children was established in 1835. Its purpose was to provide aid to single parents or relatives, most of whom were immigrants, for a weekly or monthly fee. It was incorporated by the New York State Legislature on April 27, 1837 and located in New York City at 67 West Tenth Street, near Sixth Avenue. The Society provided room, board and education to boys and girls from the ages of four through ten. In addition to the fees paid by the parents, the Society was financially supported by donations and funds from the government. From the mid-19th century to the early 20th century, the Society accepted and helped more than two thousand needy children.
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.
This collection has no restrictions.
- Terms of access:
-
Reproductions may be made for research purposes. Permission to publish material from the collection must be requested from the Curator of Manuscripts/University Archivist, Rare Book and Manuscript Library (RBML). The RBML approves permission to publish that which it physically owns; the responsibility to secure copyright permission rests with the patron.
- Preferred citation:
-
Identification of specific item; Date (if known); Society for the Relief of Half-Orphan and Destitute Children Records; Box and Folder; Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.
- Location of this collection:
- 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