FRANKLIN COUNTY—Continued

 

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stone. The death-rate is phenomenally low, being but 10 53-100 to the 1,000; twice this ratio–20 to the 1,000–is not regarded as excessive in our cities. These are the facts figures, and features that pertain to the mind, body and estate of the good capital of Ohio–an honor to the State and the pride of her people

 

TILE DRAINAGE IN OHIO

 

Drainage is all important to the welfare of an agricultural region, alike, vital to the fertility of its soil and the health of its inhabitants.

 

A large tract of the Northwestern Ohio long known as “the Black Swamp Re-

 

THE APPLE DALE TILE WORKS.

[This Apple Dale Tile Works, the property of Mr. S. J. WOOLEY, is one of the pioneer tile factories on Ohio. It is near the village of Hilliards, about thirteen miles northwest of Columbus, in Franklin County.]

 

 

gion,” covering the area of several counties, has been reclaimed by a system of open ditches and converted into an area of surprising fertility; of this we give details elsewhere. We here present an article from FRANK HENRY HOWE upon the commonwealth is such that by so doing we think we do a public service and enhance the value of this work.

 

Although drain tile was made by hand in Rome, and in France some two centuries since Ohio was one of the first States in the Union to develop to any extent this valuable industry.

 

About the year 1810, drain the tile was made at Netherby, in Northumberland, England. It was called horseshoe tile, being shaped like a horseshoe, instead of cylindrical, and was laid with opening at the bottom. This was then considered the ne plus ultra of drain tile, and for thirty years there was no improvement on this pattern.

 

 

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and experiments on his own farm. He is frequently called “The Father of Tile Drainage in American.

 

Some time previous to Mr. JOHNSTON’S efforts Dr. N. S. TOWNSHEND, then a youth in his teens, who had seen during his boyhood days spent in England the benefits derived from drainage, succeeded in introducing it in Lorain county.

 

In 1832 horseshoe tile were made by hand at Avon, Lorain county, Ohio.

 

In 1843 a machine for the manufacture of pipe tile was invented by John READ and exhibited by him at the county fair of Derbyshire, England.

 

About 1857 Mr. CANFIELD, who made the best horseshoe tile in Connecticut, removed to Milford Center, Union county, Ohio, and there manufactured horseshoe tile until his decease about 1869. A Mr. MINER also operated a small tile factory at Columbus.

 

The only tile machines made at this date were those manufactured by A. La TOURETTE, of Waterloo, New York, and MATTICE & PENFIELD, of Willoughby, Ohio, who also manufactured tile. These men did not meet with any great success financially, but they were the pioneers in educating the people.

 

At the close of the rebellion W. S. POSTLE, of Prairie, and S. J. WOOLLEY, of Brown township, Franklin county, Ohio, were the first to establish tile factories, which have been run successfully ever since, and are now large establishments.

 

Since their establishment many others have been started in different parts of the State until at the present time there are over five hundred factories in successful operation in Ohio.

 

The first improvement over the horseshoe pattern was made by adding a bottom piece, called the sole tile, to the opening in the horseshoe. These improved tile were extensively used until superseded by the cylindrical pattern, which is the only kind of drain tile now manufactured. Improvements in machinery, kilns and manipulation have brought these to a high degree of perfection and at a very low cost.

 

The output of these five hundred factories per annum is six and a half million rods, worth at the present low prices about two million dollars.

 

In 1880 J. J. W. BILLINGSLEY, of Indianapolis, commenced the publication of the Drainage Journal, and distributed a large amount of literature on drainage, which has had a very great influence in extending the use of tile, educating the people on this important subject of drainage.

 

 

 

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completing the work in Ohio. The fact is, however, that nearly all the draining in the State has been done since 1880. The Drainage Journal estimates that there was as much draining in 1882 as had been done in all the years prior to 1880. The most reasonable conclusion is that there will be plenty of work for a few tile factories in every county in the State for the next fifty years.

 

Much of the draining is so poorly done that it will be necessary to do it over again in the future. It is evident from a study of the agricultural reports of this State that tile drainage has been in progress in a few counties for quite a number of years, and we also find in a great many counties tile drainage has only been very recently introduced, and that there are a few counties that have no tile factories at all.”

 

While it is generally supposed that only wet and swampy lands are benefited by drainage it has been clearly demonstrated that the productiveness of almost all land is so increased as to more than pay within a few seasons for the cost. Land with a gravelly subsoil has more or less natural drainage and is not benefited to the same extent as land with a clayey subsoil.

 

The remarkable fertility of the soil of England, “the garden spot of the world,” is largely due to the extensive system of drainage there in use.

 

Ditching is a primitive method of draining, which in its results falls far short of the efficiency of tile, and in itself prevents its extended use by preventing the cultivation of a considerable part of the land intended to be benefited; therefore all reference to drainage in this article relates to the use of tiles.

 

Upon the invitation of its proprietor we visited the tile factory of S. J. WOOLLEY near Hilliards, to learn something of the methods of manufacture. The material used is a slate-colored fire-clay, of which abundant quantities are found throughout the State of Ohio adapted to the manufacture of drain tile, although differing somewhat in quality. When taken from the bank it contains more or less moisture according to the location of the bank and the humidity of the season. The clay used at Mr. WOOLLEY’S factory when taken from the bank has about the consistency of putty and requires neither drying out nor moisture, excepting in very dry seasons, when it is sometimes necessary to make it sufficiently pliable for working. The clay is taken from the bank to the factory near by, and fed into the hoppers of the large tile machines, which are run by steam-power. From the hopper it passes into a large iron cylinder in which revolve a series of blades which cut and knead the clay, forcing it out at the base in the shape of a continuous clay cylinder, varying in diameter according to the size of the die then in use in the machine. These dies range in size from three to eighteen inches. The cylinder of clay as it is forced from the machine comes out horizontally, and is cut off with a wire in lengths of from twelve to fifteen inches.

 

One of Mr. WOOLLEY’S tile machines, however, forces out the clay cylinder perpendicularly; this is a recent improvement and prevents the collapsing of the soft clay tile as sometimes occurs with large sizes by reason of their own weight. After the tile come from the machine they are placed on a tram car and run into long wooden buildings; here they are placed on a series of slatted shelves, which are so arranged as to allow a free circulation of air, as from one to two weeks drying out is necessary, depending upon the weather, before they can be burned in the kilns. The smaller or three-inch tile are placed horizontally, but the larger sizes all stand on end.

 

 

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tile is run up to this entrance and the tile passed in for packing. The floor of the interior is made of fire-brick and constructed like a grate, so that the flame, heat and smoke pass upward through the kiln. The tile are packed closely together, standing on end and nested; that is, the small tile are placed within those of larger diameter. Layer after layer of tile are placed on top of each other until the kiln is filled, when the entrance is built up with brick and plaster and the fires started. The fires, which are fed with either wood or coal, are kept low and allowed to smoke and smoulder until such moisture as remains in the tile after the atmospheric drying has been driven out; when this has been accomplished they are freely plied with fuel, and when a white heat has been reached, usually in about forty-eight hours, and discernible by means of small apertures in the sides of the kiln, the firing is complete and the fires are allowed to burn out.

 

The smoke, flame and heat pass up through the kiln, come into direct contact with the tile, and are then conducted by means of flues down to the base and into a smokestack some thirty or forty feet high and build a few feet apart from the kiln. This arrangement allows of a more perfect combustion of fuel and more equal distribution of heat. After the fires have died out several days elapse before the kiln is opened, that the contents may cool gradually as a sudden cooling would crack the tile. When taken from the kiln the tile are a bright red in color, with a metallic ring when struck, and almost as durable as time itself, inasmuch as there has been no product of man which has stood the test of time as fire-baked clay.

 

The farm of Mr. WOOLLEY, on which his factory is situated, is a fine example of the efficacy of tile drainage. Originally a wooded swamp, upon a large part of which water stood the whole year round, it is now one of the most productive farms in Franklin county. When Mr. WOOLLEY first purchased this farm his friends doubted his sanity, others pitied his folly, but now none doubt his wisdom, and the tile factory, originally built for his own private uses, supplies the country for miles around and has converted what was formerly looked upon as waste land into about the most fertile in the county. “He who makes two blades of grass to grow where but one grew before is a benefactor to his race. How much more must one be “who makes two blades of grass to grow where none grew before.”

 

That drainage is a benefit to low marshy lands is evident to the commonest understanding, but that it should be of any great value to land already surface dry is not very comprehensive to a very large proportion of our population.

 

The soil is the medium for the growth of plants, but does not in itself furnish all of the elements which develop their growth. Carbonic acid and ammonia, which are diffused in small quantities through the atmosphere, are brought down to the soil by rain. Upon undrained land these plant foods pass off with the surface water; on drained and porous soils they are absorbed. Drain the land and give these elements free access to the plants. When rain falls on elevated land it packs the surface of the soil, finds its way to its lowest level and unless it can penetrate through the soil, runs off in streams and rivulets; the sun comes out, dries, then bakes and hardens the surface of the soil which the water has not penetrated because it could find no outlet beneath it.

 

 

 

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Geo. L. Graham Amateur Photo,, Columbus

HAYDEN FALLS.

 

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drained than before; a larger part of it remains in the soil, which has now become a reservoir from which to draw as the plants require. That this is the effect of drainage has been proven in every case where drainage has been tried.

 

In a valuable article on the “Philosophy of Tile Drainage” read by Mr. W. J. CHAMBERLIN before the Ohio Tile Convention held at Columbus, Feb. 8, 1881, he thus summarizes the benefits of tile drainage:

 

1. Tile drainage deepens the soil, and gives the roots more feeding ground.

 

2. It helps pulverize the ground and thus to unlock its fertility so that the minute roots may drink it in.

 

3. It prevents surface wash and consequent and often great waste of fertility.

 

4. It dispenses with open ditches, which are not so good and are a great hindrance in cultivating and harvesting crops.

 

5. It lengthens the season of tillage and matures the crop before frost. It largely prevents winter-killing of wheat and the heaving of clover and other roots by frost.

 

6. It saves labor by making tillage and pulverization easier.

 

7. It supplies air to the roots and promotes the absorption of vapor and of fertilizing matters from the air and the rains and the snows.

 

8. It prevents the chilling effects from the thawing of ice and the evaporation of water, and in this and other ways warms the soil. Water warms rapidly when heat is applied from beneath, but very slowly when it is applied from above. Hence it is impossible for the sun from above to warm a saturated soil. (It has been ascertained by experiment in England that soil tile-drained is ten degrees warmer seven inches below the surface than the same kind of soil without drains.)

 

9. Drainage improves the quality as well as quantity of crops. Especially is this true of apples and of root crops like potatoes.

 

10. It is a great help in the harvest of corn, and especially of root crops in a wet fall. Without tile drainage, indeed, it is almost impossible on clayey soil.

 

11. It improves the health of crops and even prevents potato rot, which may occur on undrained soil.

 

12. It greatly improves the health of man and beast in many localities.

 

13. It greatly increases the crops, other things being equal.

 

14. But it should not be forgotten that tile-drainage is not needed on lands that have a gravel or porous sub-soil, and that even on soils that do need it drainage is only the basis for good farming, and will not pay unless followed by good farming.”

 

THE STATE INSTITUTIONS AT COLUMBUS.

 

Asylum for the Insane–Institution for the Education of the Deaf and Dumb– Institution for the Education of the Blind–Institution for the Education of Feeble-Minded Youth–The Ohio Penitentiary.

 

By the Constitution of the State the Legislature is authorized to provide at the public expense for the entire support of these varied benevolent institutions, and does not take cognizance of the pecuniary position of any of the inmates who are alike supported by the Commonwealth. Herein the insane or blind millionaire and the insane or blind pauper are on the same footing. It is on the same principle as with the Public Schools where education is universal and free to all alike, and because it tends to the moral and material progress of the whole body of the people.

 

 

 

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THE INSANE ASYLUM.

 

In response to a memorial adopted and sent to the Legislature by the State Medical Convention, held in Columbus, January, 1835, an act was passed the same year to establish a lunatic asylum for the State of Ohio.

 

The First Asylum.–In July, 1835, thirty acres of land in the northeastern part of Columbus were purchased and foundations laid for a building to accommodate one hundred and twenty patients, which was completed in November, 1839. Then twenty-seven acres were added to the original tract of land and in 1845 about seven more, making a total of sixty-four acres. In 1845-46-47 respectively, three further additions were made to the original main building.

 

Destruction by Fire.–On the evening of November 18, 1868, the entire structure was destroyed by a fire, which originated in the east wing, presumably through the mischievousness of one of the patients. Through the efficient efforts of the officers and employees all the patients were rescued excepting six females who perished from suffocation. The rescued patients were temporarily quartered in the deaf and dumb asylum and in the hospital, which escaped destruction, standing apart from the main building. The patients were eventually cared for in different asylums throughout the State.

 

The Present Asylum Built.–It was determined not to rebuild on the old site, and that property was sold in May, 1870, and the present location decided upon for the erection of a new building. On July 4, 1870, the corner-stone of the present immense structure was laid with Governor HAYES presiding, the officers of the Grand Lodge of Ohio and other Masonic bodies taking a prominent part.

 

Vast Size of the Structure.–The site selected lies some two miles west of the State house, and consists of three hundred acres of elevated land, commanding a fine view of the city. The grounds have been beautifully laid out with walks, drives, and shrubbery. In fact, so extensive and charming are the surroundings to this institution that it is but a short flight of fancy for the visitor to imagine himself in one of the grand old parks of the nobility of England. An idea of the enormous dimensions of the asylum can be formed when it is stated that the building was seven years in the course of erection, and at a cost of one and a half million dollars, and the distance around the outside wall is a mile and a quarter. That this is the largest institution of its kind in the world is well known but the beauty and grandeur of the building and its surroundings, its perfect system of management and the work accomplished in behalf of this unfortunate class can only be fully appreciated by the intelligent and observing visitor.

 

Modern Methods of Treatment.–Many well-informed people know comparatively little of the modern methods employed in the care and treatment of those bereft of reason and harbor the groundless belief that hospitals for the insane partake largely of the character of prisons, with raving maniacs confined in cells, the corridors resounding with cries and yells.

 

“Thoughtless he raves his sleeping hours away,

In chains all night, in darkness all the day.”

 

These ideas, however, are the result of the treatment of the insane in times long past, and it is gratifying to be able to say that the management of the insane at the present time stands in happy contrast to that of the past, the result of great scientific discoveries and the accumulated experience of years.

 

Employments of the Insane.–Mechanical restraint beyond occasional confinement of violent patients in the strong room is now entirely dispensed with. In addition to medical treatment various plans are adopted to divert the mind and lead it as far as possible away from self, and especially from the crushing forebodings common to the insane. Every effort is made to promote the happiness of the patients; a high moral discipline is exercised with pure beneficial influences, that seldom fail to tranquilize and lighten the burden of their affliction. In addition to providing for their comfort a systematic effort is made to furnish bodily and mental recreation. To accomplish this there is maintained a system of daily outdoor exercises, such as walking, riding, playing, and marching when the weather permits. Carriage riding for the feeble has been a leading feature and is practiced daily. A large number have been encouraged to perform different kinds of manual labor. Men are employed on the farm, garden, barn, boiler-room. They are not coerced, but left free to do so or not; and it being a matter of choice their work is done cheerfully and to their profit.

 

Benefit of Labor.–While on a visit to this Central Insane Asylum we were shown a patient in the clothes drying-room who was busily engaged hanging wet sheets on a clothes horse. He took great pride and pleasure in his work and would brook no advice or interference. The official who conducted us through the institution informed us that he silently and faithfully performed his daily task and would not hesitate to do bodily injury to any one who dared to assist or interfere with him. Each person employed works on an average about four hours a day. The benefit of daily labor as a curative agent has long been acknowledged by the best experts. Being employed in light labor the mind is occupied, which with the fresh air and healthful exercise do much to promote happiness, good temper, and contentment.

 

 

 

Top Picture

Drawn by Henry Howe.

THE PRISONERS MARCHING IN THE OHIO PENITENTARY, 1846.

 

Middle Left Picture

ASYLUM FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB, 1846

.

Middle Right Picture

ASYLUM FOR THE INSANE, 1846.

 

Bottom Right Picture

 

 

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Top Picture

THE ASYLUM FOR THE INSAND, 1888.

 

Middle Right Picture

ASYLUM FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB, 1888.

 

Middle Left Picture

ASYLUM FOR THE FEEBLE-MINDED YOUTH 1888

 

Bottom Right Picture

 

 

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if they could have accompanied us through the wards occupied by this class of patients. We found them promenading up and down engaged in conversation with each other and occupied in various ways. Many of them seemed quite happy and contented. When their periodical fits of violence come on it becomes necessary to confine them in the strong room until the fit wears off, usually in a short time. They are liberated as soon as their condition permits and allowed to mingle with the others in their ward; and every effort consistent with safety is made to have them feel that they are under no restraint. This, combined with kind treatment, the best medical skill and attention to comfort, health and happiness, improves the condition of all and in many cases results in an entire cure.

 

Interesting Anecdotes.–The prejudices and notions that take root in a diseased brain are manifested in many ways. While we were being conducted through one of the wards one of the inmates, a short stout man about fifty years of age with slightly stooping shoulders, long gray beard, a large hooked nose and most repulsive cast of countenance, followed close behind the official who accompanied us, imitating our gait, muttering in a low tone of voice, and steadfastly gazing at our attendant with expression so threatening and sinister as to fill a timid person with terror. Whenever we stopped he did likewise, always keeping the same distance, from us, and we were not rid of his unwelcome presence until the outer door of his ward was shut and locked between us. Our attendant said that the man imagined him an enemy and invariably went through the same programme whenever the official had occasion to enter his ward. The man is waiting for a favorable opportunity to attack his supposed enemy, but the official told us he was not at all alarmed for his safety, for when attacked it is only necessary to place the hand over the mouth and nose of the patient when suffocation ensues and subdues them. In resisting the most violent patients it is never necessary to resort to blows. So skillful do the attendants become in the management of the violently insane that two attendants can easily manage an insane person when four inexperienced persons would find it a difficult task.

 

We had a practical illustration of this during our visit. A new patient who was suffering from acute mania was being brought in by two robust-looking men, evidently inexperienced, as was shown by the great difficulty they had in managing their charge, when they were met by two of the attendants, who, placing themselves one on each side of the patient, grasped with one hand each shoulder and with the other and with the other each wrist, and with the patient’s arms stretched out at full length, marched him through the corridor with seeming ease.

 

Use of Narcotics.–What is know as chemical restraint, or the use of powerful narcotic drugs in order to reduce a violent patient to a state of quiescence is never resorted to except in cases where the health of the patients would not admit of any other treatment.

 

Suicidal Tendencies.–The officers and attendants are made familiar with the history of every new patient where possible, and in that way learn their special hobbies and peculiarities, and are governed accordingly in their treatment of them. We were informed that those patients of suicidal intent would never attempt self-destruction in the presence of others, and for that reason four or five of them would be placed in the same apartments, and effectually guarded each other. This class of insane persons consume much time in making preparations for suicide, so that they are always prevented from accomplishing their purpose before their preparations are completed by the vigilant watchfulness of the attendants. Never having any weapon, every precaution being taken, they are rendered harmless.

 

An Amusing Incident is related of two females who had agreed to kill each other, and had managed to detach the iron grating from the register, which was to be the weapon used. It was agreed between them that one was to strike the other a blow on the head, but not so hard as to kill instantly, so that the one struck would have sufficient strength left to strike the uninjured one in return. They then entered into an animated discussion as to which one should strike first, when the arrival of the attendant put a stop to the proceedings.

 

The Evidences of Insanity are not discernible in the personal appearance of many of the patients, but a few moments conversation is all that is necessary to convince the most skeptical that the mind is diseased. A case of this kind was that of a large, benevolent-looking old lady who politely invited us into her room with an apology for the smallness of her quarters. She gave intelligent answers to our questions, but upon her trying to convince us that she was 2,882 years of age and was the mother of 400 children, we came to the conclusion that she had an original method of computation or was where she properly belonged. And we had no doubt remaining as to the correctness of the latter conclusion when we were informed that she was passionately fond of smoking dried onions and garlic.

 

The Ball Room Recreation.–Every Thursday evening a ball is given in the handsome entertainment hall in the asylum which is attended by about 400 of the patients. They all look forward to the evening with bright anticipations of pleasure and seem to fully realize them. The beneficial results of this recreation are apparent. The excitable are entertained and the melancholy cheered, while the excellent deportment of all excites the wonder of visitors. Concerts, dramatic entertainments and lantern exhibitions are also given and are greatly enjoyed. Everything in fact is done to divert the patients’ minds from their condition and inspire them with that greatest cordial of the mind, hope.

 

 

 

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ment of the insane lies in taking advantage of lucid intervals and at such times endeavoring by every means at command to prolong their duration. Hence the employment of frequent and varied amusements, the object being to beget freshness, vividness and sane consciousness. The result is a full realization of the morbid fantasies of the past and firm resolves to keep in subjection outbreaks of temper, anxious and perverted thoughts, bewildering illusions and free the mind of

 

“A whirling gulf of phantasy and flame.”

 

The Asylum Life not Gloomy.–A visit to the Central Ohio Insane Asylum would at once correct the erroneous idea that asylum life is of necessity one of gloom and depression. While there is much that is saddening and pitiful indeed, the many cures effected, the improvement in the majority, and the kindly care and constant efforts that are made for the physical and mental welfare of the inmates cheers instead of depressing the spirits of the visitor.

 

The Religious Welfare of the patients is not neglected. Chapel services are held regularly on Sabbath evenings and to congregations which are an interesting study. All degrees of mental departure are represented, yet their behavior and attention would set a good example for many who boast superior intelligence. The congregation, with books in hand, join in singing, and the whole effect of the services is to greatly improve the mental condition of the patients.

 

The Statistics of the institution show that those persons engaged in occupations requiring heavy bodily labor, such as farmers, laborers, housewives, housekeepers and domestics, furnish a large proportion of the inmates. Farmers and farmers’ wives abound more than any other single class in these institutions. This is owing to the monotonous lives led by them and consequent inactivity of the brain, which, becoming weakened from lack of proper exercise of its functions, is the first organ to succumb when disease attacks the system. This showing is in direct opposition to the general impression that insanity is usually the result of excessive mental activity. The statistics give further proof that the general impression is erroneous in this regard, by showing that the proportion of insane among the educated class of people is very small. This also proves that the laws of health require proper exercise for the brain as well as the body.

 

The statistics of this asylum for the year 1887 show that 140 males were admitted, of whom 60 were farmers, 25 laborers, and the rest were scattering, the highest being carpenters, 4 in number. Of females 144 were admitted, of whom 85 were housewives, 28 housekeepers and 15 domestics, the next highest being farmers’ daughters, 3 in number.

 

The report also states that the daily average number of inmates was 863, of whom 410 were males and 453 females. The report also says: “Special attention is called to the number of recoveries, being 90 males and 52 females, total 142, and also to the low death rate, which was 30 males, 23 females, total 53. This will compare very favorably with any institution in the country. The percentage of recoveries, based upon the admissions, is , for males, 64.28 per cent., and for females, 36.11 per cent., and for both 55.69 per cent. The percentage of deaths, based upon the whole number treated, is, for males, 5.36 per cent., and for females 3.89 per cent., and for both, 4.71 per cent.”

 

Trustees.–Henry PLIMPTON, Columbus; Aaron B. ROBINSON, Marysville; George W. MORGAN, Mt. Vernon; Joseph P. SMITH, Circleville; William WADDLE, Chillicothe; Superintendent, C. M. FINCH, M. D.; Steward, George L. CURRIER.

 

The Ohio Central Insane Asylum is not the only State institution providing for the insane; others are located at Athens, Cleveland, Carthage and Dayton. There is also under the patronage of the State the Northwestern Asylum, which, containing a yearly average of about 100 patients under a contract with the State, is a county institution under control and direction of county commissioners.

 

The total number of persons in Ohio State Hospitals for Insane on Nov. 15, 1887, was 3,687, of whom 1,775 were males and 1,912 females.

 

THE INSTITUTION FOR THE EDUCATION OF THE DEAF AND DUMB.

 

Rev. Dr. HOGE, of Columbus, was a man of great force in Ohio, shown by his successful efforts at an early date in influencing its Legislature to found beneficent institutions. Largely through him it was that an institution for the education of the deaf and dumb was founded during the legislative session of 1826-27. Gov. MORROW in his annual message recommended the measure, and the result was the passage of an act in accordance with the recommendation.

 

The school was opened October 16, 1829, in a small building on the corner of High and Broad streets. Only three pupils were present, but the number steadily increased, and larger quarters became necessary. In February, 1829, ten acres of land, lying half a mile east of the State-House, were purchased, at a cost of $300. On this site the first building for the use of the school was erected, and ready for occupancy at the opening of the fall term of 1834. A wing was added in 1845-46 to the south end of the original building. The continued increase of applicants in time rendered a larger building necessary, and in pursuance of an act of the Legislature passed March, 1864, in October of the same year the corner-stone for the present large and commodious structure was laid with appropriate exercises.

 

 

 

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before his teacher as nature formed and left him: His mental faculties undeveloped, and with vague and undefined notions of what is going to be done for him. The world is to him a blank; his pleasures are mere animal pleasures, nor does hope, as it does for others, hold up a brilliant future for him. He looks at the stars as mere openings in the azure canopy of night, or as a few moons broken up and in disorder upon its surface. He supposes the sun a small ball of fire at a little distance from the earth, and a new one formed for daily use, or the old one by stealth finds its way to the east while people are asleep, ready on each successive morning to commence again its daily course.

 

These and similar ideas are the struggling efforts of an imprisoned mind unaided and thrown back upon its own native resources attempting to account for some of the usual phenomena of nature. He finds himself a foreigner at home, a stranger at his father’s fireside; though in the midst of society, he is isolated from his fellow-men, entirely ignorant of the past history of the world, of the rise and fall of nations, of the wars which have deluged the earth in blood, or of the great principles of the world; nor has he the least conception of the crimes and virtues of men, or knows that he is a social and intellectual being; and does not dream of the immortality of the soul, or of the existence of a Supreme Being, until the effects of education begin to show upon his darkened intellect.

 

The object of the institution is to educate the mute, and fit him to occupy a position in the world where he will be of use to himself and his fellow-men; give him the benefit of education and moral cultivation, and as nearly as possible place him on terms of equality with others more favored by providential circumstances. There have been cases where the deaf and dumb were entirely cured, but they are extremely rare, and only where the cause of the infirmity has been some obstructions in the outer ear, and which are removable, that there is much probability of a cure.

 

In the method of instruction great use is made of the countenance; in fact, the mutes could not be taught without it as it is needed to modify and accentuate the sign-language. The happy results obtained in the five years’ course of study are astonishing, from the first dawn of knowledge obtained from the study of the manual alphabet down through a course of instruction including those studies that are taught to advanced pupils in our high schools and colleges, as well as in teaching various trades.

 

A very strong attachment springs up between the teacher and deaf and dumb scholar. An instance of this is now a matter of history: In France, during the reign of terror, the Abbé SICARD, the celebrated teacher, while engaged in his benevolent avocation of maturing his system of educating the deaf and dumb, was arrested in his school-room, and hurried from among his mute pupils to prison. A mock trial, a mere prelude to the guillotine, had been held, when his pupils in a body, of their own accord, it is believed, appeared at the prison gates, and besought the release of their more than father. So powerful a demonstration of grief did they make, that the populace was moved in their behalf and SICARD liberated. These people were small deaf and dumb children, collected by SICARD, and for whose moral and intellectual salvation he had consecrated his days.

 

The industrial department of this institution is one of its most important features, and gives employment to the inmates outside of the school-rooms. This department includes a carpenter-shop, shoe-shops, printing-office, where a weekly paper is printed, and a large bookbindery, where regular contract-work gives employment to many of the mutes. The females are also taught to sew, and make many necessary articles of wearing apparel, as well as do all of the mending of the clothes of the inmates.

 

The institution, which now has accommodations for 425 pupils, is located in the midst of spacious grounds, handsomely laid out with walks, shrubbery, and flowers, to give the inmates the benefit of pleasing surroundings.

 

Trustees.–J. M. KIRBY, Upper Sandusky; Rufus R. DAWES, Marietta; James SCOTT, Lebanon; Jacob CHERRYHOLMES, Millersburg; Frederick W. HERBST, Columbus, superintendent, Amasa PRATT; Steward, J. S. ELLIS.

 

THE INSTITUTION FOR THE EDUCATION OF THE BLIND.

 

The Institution at Columbus is the only State institution of the kind, excepting the Working Home for the Blind at Iberia, Morrow county, which differs somewhat in its aims and purposes.

 

It is somewhat doubtful as to the real character of the Working Home of the Blind, as it sustains a peculiar relationship in the list of the organized charities of the State. It was organized under State law, money was appropriated for its proper equipment, with a view to establishing a home where the blind capable of performing skilled work could find a home and employment, and be assured of a competence for their support from the results of their labor.

 

It was the understanding with those who conceived the plan and urged the consideration of the General Assembly to the project, that after the institution would be fairly started no further aid would be asked from the State.

 

The opening exercises of the Ohio Institute for the Blind were held in the Presbyterian church in Columbus, on July 4, 1837, in the presence of the teachers and scholars of the city Sunday-schools, who, to the number of 900, had assembled to celebrate Independence day. The teacher and five pupils were present, which number was increased to eleven by November.

 

 

 

 

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National road near the city, and the pupils removed there in October. So rapid was the progress of the pupils in one year’s instruction at the institute that during the last vacation they were able to give interesting exhibitions, in company with their instructors, in several cities of the State.

 

The Present Building.–The demands for larger quarters becoming apparent, a law authorizing the erection of a new building was passed May 6, 1869, but owing to the scarcity of labor the building was not completed and occupied until May 21, 1874. This imposing structure is in the old English or the later period of Elizabethan style of architecture, and has accommodations for 250 pupils and about 65 additional persons, including officers, teachers, servants, etc. The building is fireproof, and is arranged with the strictest regard for the health, convenience, and happiness of the inmates.

 

Devices for Instruction.–One cannot fully appreciate or understand the wonderful results obtained from a course of instruction at the institute until he has paid it a visit. There are to be seen specimens of the most beautiful handiwork in embrodery, etc., by the female pupils, and a library of books with raised letters, from which the blind can while away many a pleasant hour, deriving pleasure and instruction from reading by the sense of feeling. Maps and charts are also used, with the rivers, countries, mountains, cities, etc., marked out by raised lines and by indentations, by which the pupils are enabled to obtain a most accurate knowledge of geography.

 

The Happy Device of Valentine HAUY.–Previous to the year 1774 the method of instruction in all blind institutions was entirely oral, when owing to an incident, trival in itself, a discovery which has been most wonderful in its results, and opened a new world to the blind, was made by Valentine HAUY, a Frenchman and brother to the celebrated Abbé HAUY, by which the blind were enabled to read. In an evening walk M. HAUY’s attention was attracted by the sound of music proceeding from one of those houses of refreshment so common in Europe along the public promenades. Approaching the spot he discovered eight or ten blind persons, “spectacles au nez,” seated behind a long desk, which was covered with music books, executing in concert various airs on different musical instruments, much to the amusement of the bystanders. The parade of music-books was of course a mere farce; but the active and benevolent mind of HAUY converted this otherwise ridiculous circumstance into an event most important in its results.

 

The blind, thought he, readily distinguish objects by the diversity of their forms; why then may they not distinguish fa from sol, or an A from an F, if these characters should be rendered palpable? The result of this random thought was the invention of books, music, charts, etc., with raised characters. This method of instruction invented and adopted by M. HAUY has undergone but few alterations since his day, and though his system is undoubtedly susceptible of large improvement, it is yet a matter of astonishment that so much has actually been accomplished.

 

The Blind Leading the Seeing.–The ability of the blind to become even more familiar with their surroundings and the location of different objects is shown in many instances. Visitors to the institution are shown through the building by a blind young lady, who rather reverses the order of things by leading those who can see up and down stairs, through long corridors and different apartments with perfect ease and familiarity, explaining to them the uses of the various departments and objects with never failing accuracy.

 

Entertainment Hall.–Perhaps not the least interesting apartment is the entertainment hall, which is beautifully frescoed and decorated, and is fitted up with a fine church organ, grand piano and stage, where exhibitions, concerts, etc., are given, showing the proficiency of the pupils in literature, science and the arts to audiences who are filled with astonishment and delight at the wonderful results obtained by an education at the institute. Music has always been an essential branch in the system of instruction because of their peculiar aptitude for it. The susceptibility of the ear and the powers of the voice seem augmented by the deprivation of sight, though it is physiologically certain that this apparent improvement of the auditory and vocal organs is owing merely to increased exercise. Another strong reason why the blind have so much talent for music is their great love for an art which their infirmity does not prevent them from deriving as much enjoyment from as those who see. By the cultivation of music the blind are furnished with means always at command not only of innocent and beneficial recreation, but also of a pleasant and respectable livelihood. They are in general remarkable for facility both in the acquisition and communication of ideas. The object of the institution in educating a class of people who have been poor, unhappy creatures, almost helpless and in the majority of cases dependent upon charity for their daily sustenance, is indeed most successfully accomplished. Although deprived of sight the deficiency is supplied to a certain extent by the natural acuteness of intellect and powers of memory which, combined with the educational advantages derived from the institution, develop them into useful, intelligent citizens, not only capable of self-support but in many cases they have risen to prominence in literary, mechanical and art circles.

 

 

 

 

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century. SAUNDERSON lost his sight at a very early age, from small-pox. This man became one of the professors at the university, and lectured most admirably upon mathematics and every subject connected there-with. He was a man of most extensive erudition, and a great philosopher; but what most astonished those who knew him was the perfection to which he brought his remaining senses; his hearing was so acute that he could detect the minutest intonations of the voice, and judge very shrewdly of the character of any one with whom he conversed ten minutes; on coming into his room he could tell by the sound of his cane on the floor, or by the echo of his voice, whether any of the large furniture of the room had been removed, or changed from one side of the room to the other. The perfection of his touch was often tested in the examination of ancient coins; for he could run over a cabinet of Roman medals with his fingers, and distinguish the genuine from the counterfeit, when the difference was so slight as to puzzle connoisseurs with both eyes to find it out. SAUNDERSON enjoyed the friendship of Sir Isaac NEWTON. The Royal Society of London elected him a member of that body, and after his death the University of Cambridge published his mathematical works.

 

The inmates of the Ohio institution are an apt illustration of the maxim that work and occupation is the soother of all sorrows, for they are evidently very happy. They have the continued consciousness that they are fitting themselves for lives of usefulness and independence, and when the community at large see and realize the beneficial effects of the education derived from this and other institutions they should no longer say “Helpless are the blind,” but rather “Helpless are the ignorant.”

 

Trustees.–John L. ATWOOD, Ripley; H. C. DRINKLE, Lancaster; John H. HUDSON, Sandusky; David L. WADSWORTH, Wellington; Edward PAGELS, Columbus. Superintendent, C. H. MILLER. Steward, R. W. BELL.

 

THE INSTITUTION FOR THE EDUCATION OF FEEBLE-MINDED YOUTH.

 

In March, 1850, the Hon. Pinckney LEWIS, of the Ohio Senate, secured the passage of a resolution directing Dr. Hanbury SMITH, superintendent of the Ohio Lunatic Asylum, to report to the next general assembly the number of imbecile youth in the State, and the propriety of making provision for their support and education. No such report was presented.

 

Its Origin.–In 1853 Dr. N. S. TOWNSHEND, then a senator elect, who had previously studied medicine in Paris, and learned what had been done there for imbeciles, meeting Gov. MEDILL on the street approached him with the remark, “Governor, have you anything in your forthcoming message on the education of imbeciles?” “What!” was the reply, “fools! Why you can’t teach fools anything, can you?” “Oh, yes,” he replied, and then went on to explain what had been accomplished elsewhere. As a result of the conversation Gov. MEDILL in his next message brought the subject before the general assembly. This portion of the message being referred to a select committee of which Dr. TOWNSHEND was chairman he presented a report detailing what had been done for this unfortunate class in Europe and in our country. A bill for the establishment of an institution for imbeciles was introduced, but failed to pass.

 

The Institution Established.–In the winter of 1856 Dr. WILBUR, superintendent of the New York Imbecile Asylum, passed through Columbus, gave a lecture, and exhibited two pupils before the general assembly. In 1857 Hon. Herman CANFIELD, of the senate, introduced a bill to establish an Ohio Asylum for Idiots, which passed both branches of the Legislature, and became a law April 17, 1857. A board of trustees was promptly appointed by Gov. CHASE, consisting of William DENNISON, Asher COOK, and N. S. TOWNSHEND. Upon the organization of the board, Mr. DENNISON was chosen chairman; N. S. TOWNSHEND, secretary; and Dr. R. J. PATTERSON, superintendent. At the time of making the first report in November, 1857, the building on E. Main street, now used for the home of the friendless, had been secured and fifteen pupils received, a number soon afterward increased to 40. In 1859 the office of assistant superintendent was created, and Dr. G. A. DOREN chosen to fill that position. In 1860 the office of superintendent becoming vacant, Dr. DOREN was elected superintendent pro tem. by the board of trustees. So faithful and efficient was this gentleman in the discharge of his duties that he was unanimously re-elected at the close of the year, and has been continued from that period to this, in all twenty-eight years. The old quarters were occupied for ten years, with a yearly average of between forty and fifty pupils, which was the largest number the building could accommodate. The increasing number of applicants becoming greater each year, in accordance with an act of the Legislature appropriating the necessary amount, the present site was purchased, and in 1864 a suitable building for the accommodation of 300 pupils and the necessary officers, teachers, etc., was commenced. In July, 1868, the new building was completed and occupied. Before the end of the first school year the number of inmates in the new building had increased to nearly 300. The practicability and value of the institution having been satisfactorily demonstrated, additions were constantly being made to the original building to accommodate the increasing number of applicants for admittance until in the year 1881 there were 614 inmates and every available space in use.