At the end of the Civil War, Pennsylvania had more orphaned children than most states. Carl Bloss, Archivist Emeritus of Bethany’s Children’s Home, who previously lectured at the BHC about the Soldier’s Orphans Schools Program (SOS), will speak about the early orphanages of Reading and Berks County from 1729 to 1850, when many orphanages were active. Mr. Bloss will trace the growth and demise of the orphanage system from a Berks County viewpoint.
This program will be held in person, inside the BHC Museum Auditorium. The cost of this program is $5 for BHC members and $8 for non-members. The program fee includes admission to the BHC Museum. Fees will be accepted at the door on the day of the event. Coffee, hot tea, juice and light refreshments will be made available for participants at 9:30 AM.
Masks are required for entry. Please note that seating is limited to facilitate social distancing. Attendees must call 610-375-4375 prior to the event to reserve a space.
