Industrial Home for the Blind

Founded in 1883 by Eben P. Morford, who had been blinded as a child by an accident with a firearm, the mission of the Industrial Home for the Blind was to provide education, skills training, job opportunities, and community for the blind in Brooklyn. Originally located at 96 Lexington Avenue, the Home subsequently expanded several times, adding new facilities in different locations, and ultimately establishing its general offices at 57 Willoughby Street, where as of 2010 it continues to operate as the Helen Keller Services for the Blind.

From the guide to the Industrial Home for the Blind collection, 1894-1953, (Brooklyn Historical Society)