Ladies' Deborah and Child's Protectory facts for kids

The Ladies' Deborah and Child's Protectory was a special place in New York City during the 1800s. It was like a day care center and an orphanage, helping children aged two to six years old. It was located at 204 East Broadway.

This organization cared for children whose parents worked during the day and needed a safe place for their kids. The children received meals and were returned to their parents in the evening. The Protectory also took in children who had been abandoned and needed a home.

The group officially became an organization on March 5, 1878. Just a few weeks later, on March 24, 1878, the facility opened its doors. On that first morning, 59 young children were welcomed inside. Mrs. P.J. Joachimsen started the Ladies' Deborah and Child's Protectory. She was also the president of another important group called the Hebrew Sheltering Guardian Society of New York City.

How the Protectory Was Supported

Early Funding and Help

In January 1880, the New York City Board of Apportionment provided financial help to the institution. They gave $1,289.43 from a special fund to support the children. At this time, the organization was also known as the Ladies' Deborah Nursery and Child's Protectory.

Locations and Building Care

By March 1883, the Deborah Nursery had its main location at 95 East Broadway. It also had a branch at 101 East Broadway. There was even a separate branch for girls at 423 East 83rd Street. Elbridge T. Gerry, who was the president of the New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, checked on these buildings. He noted that they needed attention from the building department for repairs to keep them safe and in good condition.

Helping the Community

Before the Protectory Opened

The Ladies' Deborah Relief Association was active for at least four years before the child's protectory opened. This group worked to help people who were sick and poor. For example, on July 29, 1874, they held a special event to raise money for those in need. This event took place at Bellevue Garden, near 80th Street (Manhattan).

Later Changes

Over time, the organization's properties changed. In June 1897, a site on Eagle Avenue, located on the West Side (Manhattan), was sold. This happened because of a foreclosure, which means the property was sold to pay off debts. The land was quite large, measuring 150 feet by 125 feet. It had two brick buildings, one with three stories and another with four stories.