Resident from 1936 - 1951
First let me say, the Home was a life saver for my sister and me. My mother died when I was two and my father had a stroke. He decided, after the church's suggestion, it would be best for the two girls to go to the Children's Home in Monroe. This was in 1936 and my father died that Christmas.
So many things come to me of special times at the Home. However, Christmas time seems to stand out. After the trees were delivered, we would all gather in the living room to decorate from the floor to the ceiling. We would sing Christmas carols, read the Bible, and all the gifts would be placed under the tree. Our matron would be sure we all got gifts. Along with the gifts, a special man, Mr. Biedenharn, would have a gift for every child—a box of fruit, nuts, and candy.
The Home trained us in everyday living, both spiritual and how to go out into the world and make a success of our life. The guidance, training, and love which I received while at the Home, were the great influences in my life. I'll always be grateful to the Home for the love, understanding, and guidance they gave me.