Second annual report of the trustees of the New-York State Asylum for Idiots.

  • New York State Asylum for Idiots
Date:
[1853?]
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Second annual report of the trustees of the New-York State Asylum for Idiots. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    tile distinctions of human intelligence are but as mote-wide, that he has blessed us with a remarkable exemption from sickness; and that while His hand has quenched in death intellects of the highest order, it has been extended with a fatherly care over these, the most helpless, dependent and unfortunate of His children. Our number of pupils has nearly doubled; every judical dis¬ trict is fully and fairly represented in our school, and the whole number allowed bylaw are now, and for some three months have been, in attendance. We have refused, while there wras yet room, but one applicant of a suitable age. That was a case described by the family and examining physicians, as one of continued, vio¬ lent and almost hourly recurring convulsions, and where in their opinion the life of the subject was very uncertain. We have sent away three of those received during the year, after a residence of some time at the asylum, and a fair trial. One was in consumption, and died but a few weeks after leaving. Another was a marked case of hereditary insanity, while the third was afflicted with chorea, that rendered him entirely unfit for instruction or discipline. Some degree of system has been established in all departments of the institution. All engaged in the instruction, in the man- agement, and even in providing for the physical -wants of the chil¬ dren, have been benefitted by the year’s experience. Especially may I say of the teachers, that they now labor with more interest, a better understanding of the nature of their duties, and a stron- gerfaith in the ultimate good results of their efforts. Justice de¬ mands of me this expression of my appreciation of the fidelity, patience and industry of all connected with the institution under my direction. But, above all, it gives me pleasure to call your attention to the Very marked improvements in the condition of the pupils; to the fact that their present comfort and happiness have been promoted by their residence with us ; and, also, that the results of this brief period justify liberal expectations as to the ultimate benefits that our pupils will receive from such an asylum and such a system of instruction.
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