Call Number:

MC.801.11.021

Repository:

Haverford College Quaker & Special Collections

Extent:

.01 linear ft. (1 box)

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

Magdalen Society Subscriber List (HC.MC 801-11-021) Quaker and Special Collections, Haverford College, Haverford, PA.

Date:

1841

Creator:

Magdalen Society (Philadelphia, Pa.)

Abstract:

This collection is made up of a Magdalen Society Subscriber List (one sheet of paper) which includes a list of donors wanting to erect more buildings for the asylum.

The Magdalen Society, founded in 1800 after a meeting of 23 citizens in the Friends Meeting House in Philadelphia, sought to reform "fallen" and "wayward" women and rehabilitate former prostitutes. Bishop William White and Mayor Robert Wharton led the society with the goal of "restoring to the paths of virtue those unhappy females who in unguarded hours have been robbed of their innocence." Rules in the asylum were strict. A high wall was later erected in 1811 to contain the admitted and enforce rules. The society targeted younger white women with the intention that they would be easier to reform. African American women were not allowed in the society (neither to serve on the board nor to be admitted). The society expanded in 1845 to better serve its inmates. Women in the homes focused on reading scripture, sewing, making yarn, and selling clothing, in hopes of becoming independent. There was also an emphasis on marrying the women off.

This collection is made up of a Magdalen Society Subscriber List (one sheet of paper). People who signed the paper pledged to donate money to the organization to help erect more buildings for the asylum. Donations ranged from $5 to $100, for a total of $1030. Notable donors include George Williams (one of the managers of the society) and Bishop William White (president of the society).

Single item