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Blind Institution, Edgbaston

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Teresa

Teresa Report 1 Mar 2004 19:50

Does anyone know anything about this place in 1881 - was it a school, a college, a workhouse or what? I have a g g aunt who was there in 1881 - she was blind herself

Emma

Emma Report 1 Mar 2004 19:54

Teresa, Got this from RNIB Birmingham, Warwickshire The Institution, later called the Birmingham Royal Institution for the Blind, was founded at Edgbaston. William Harrold, a Birmingham merchant, conceived the idea of establishing the lnstitution, but died before the scheme was carried out; however, his daughter, Elizabeth, and her friend, Miss Mary Badger, rented a small house in Ruston Street, where the Institution was started. It soon after removed to larger premises in Ryland Street, and in the first annum report in 1848, the address was 113 Broad Street in addition to school subjects, knitting, straw-planing, and basket-making were taught. Miss Badger was the Hon. Lady Superintendent for forty-eight years. (In 1930 there were 1900 blind persons on the register, including I76 residents, besides 30 in the Hostels, 40 day scholars, 203 workshop employees, 136 home workers, 28 other employees, and 44 adult trainees.) Emma.

George

George Report 20 Jun 2004 12:51

This may help: GB/NNAF/O55774 Explain this entry Birmingham Royal Institution for the Blind Birmingham, Warwickshire 1848-1986 : minutes, accounts, annual reports, corresp Birmingham City Archives Reference : MS 1700 see Annual return 1993 c1860-c1990 : Lickey Grange School records Birmingham City Archives Reference : MS 1700 NRA 36731 Birmingham Blind

Seasons

Seasons Report 20 Jun 2004 16:25

Isn't it still there? If not then its only moved in last 10 years or so (I think).