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Start Over Repository Elwyn Historical Archives and Museum Year 1850 to 1899

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Orphan Society of Philadelphia records, 1930-1965 (bulk) 1815-1965 (inclusive)

Extent:
4.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The Orphan Society of Philadelphia, founded in 1814, was the first non-sectarian orphanage in Pennsylvania. In 1965, due to low enrollment and financial and staffing issues, the Orphan Society merged with the Elwyn School, now known as Elwyn, in Delaware County, Pa. The Orphan Society of Philadelphia records, 1815-1965 (bulk 1930-1965), consist of administrative and financial records, legal documents, historical files, orphan records, and other materials. Of special interest is an Orphan Asylum register listing orphan admissions (name, birth date, admission date) and dates of discharge or death from 1815 to 1896.

Held at: Elwyn Historical Archives and Museum [Contact Us]

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Elwyn records, 1852-2006 (inclusive)

Extent:
125.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Elwyn is one of the oldest service organizations in the United States for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Tracing its roots to a Philadelphia school for "mental defectives" founded in 1852, and officially incorporated in 1853 as The Pennsylvania Training School for Feeble-Minded Children, Elwyn has remained at the vanguard in the understanding, care, and treatment of intellectual disability for over 150 years. One of its most influential staff members, Superintendent Dr. Isaac Kerlin, was instrumental in organizing the field's national professional organization, today known as the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The Elwyn records, 1852-2006, consist of materials from Elwyn's administrative bodies and staff members including past superintendents and presidents, student records, materials published by Elwyn including publicity materials, photographs, and various audio and audiovisual materials. The collection is organized into six...(see more)

Held at: Elwyn Historical Archives and Museum [Contact Us]