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creased, if the majority of the children who attend them could be controlled in the same manner.
As no public provision is made for the instruction of children too young to attend the Primary schools, the two infant schools are watched with deep interest. They are both in a very satisfactory state.
3. Schools connected with Benevolent and Reformatory Institutions.[2]
House of Refuge,[1] corner of Poplar and William streets. Established in 1850; supported in part by the State. The Boys' school has a principal and one assistant male teacher. Largest number of inmates at any one time 88; average for the year 75; sessions from 5 to 712 A. M., and from 512 to 8 P. M., the evening session on Saturday being omitted.
The Girls' school has one female teacher. Largest number of inmates at any one time 44; average for the year 36; one session from 2 to 5 P. M. Being schools of discipline as well as of instruction, the order is excellent, and the scholars make fair progress in their studies. Their last session in the week is principally devoted to reading the Bible or sacred history. A considerable number of the boys, when not in school, work at some useful trade. The girls are occupied with making garments, mending, washing and other domestic duties out of school.
Orphans' Shelter, Thirteenth street above Callowhill. Established in 1822, under the care of an association of women Friends. It has a principal and one assistant female teacher, and is conducted principally upon the infant school plan. Number of inmates at the close of the year 73. There are always a few too small to be in school. Being apprenticed at an early age, there are seldom any over ten years old to attend.
Home for Colored Children, Girard avenue above Ridge Road. Established in 1855. It is under the control of a board of lady managers, assisted by a board of male trustees. It contains at present 19 inmates. Its design is to take the entire control of destitute colored children of both sexes, instruct them mentally and morally, and place them as apprentices in some useful occupation with persons interested in their welfare. It is proposed to incorporate the Institution, procure funds, and erect a building adapted to the purpose, which will accommodate the numerous applicants who seek the protection which such a home affords.
