Syracuse State Institution for Feeble-Minded Children (N.Y.)

An 1851 law provided for the state to undertake the care and teaching of "idiots" (the then accepted term for people with retardation). That year, Dr. Hervey B. Wilbur opened an experimental school, with 20 pupils, at a private residence in Albany, New York. Two years later the legislature appropriated funds to buy land and erect a new institution. A group of Syracuse's most prominent citizens wanted the school located in their city, and offered the trustees 18 acres of free land. The offer was accepted, and on September 8, 1854 the cornerstone was laid for the New York State Asylum for Idiots. The building, with a capacity for 100 residents, was completed on August 10, 1855.

From the description of Building plans and drawings for the New York State Idiot Asylum, [ca. 1850-1897]. (New York State Archives). WorldCat record id: 122535980

The Pan-American Exposition was a fair held in Buffalo, New York, from May 1 to November 2, 1901. Its purpose was to showcase the material and cultural progress of the Western Hemisphere. At the turn of the century, the Syracuse State Institution for Feeble-Minded Children was a premier facility for care and teaching of the mentally retarded; its methods and facilities were of considerable public and private interest, study, and impact.

From the description of Exhibit material, [ca. 1900]. (New York State Archives). WorldCat record id: 122537326