Mount Pleasant Home for Destitute Children
Side A
At this site in 1881, Abby Munro, a Quaker from Philadelphia, established a home for orphans, neglected, and destitute children. Funds to purchase and operate the home were solicited locally and from friends in the North. It was incorporated in 1883 and is believed to have been the first orphanage for colored children in the State.
Side B
Room and board cost approximately one dollar a week per child. The children were taught to cook, wash, iron, knit, sew, mend clothes, and all the duties of a household. The older children attended school regularly and made commendable progress in their studies. The orphanage operated here until the building was destroyed by fire in 1920.
Erected 2007 by Town of Mount Pleasant.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Charity & Public Work • Education. A significant historical year for this entry is 1881.
Location. 32° 47.194′ N, 79° 52.64′ W. Marker is in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, in Charleston County. Marker is on Bennett Street close to Venning Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Mount Pleasant SC 29464, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Pitt Street Merchants (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); The Whilden House / 54th Massachusetts Regiment
this page online
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on November 16, 2010. This page has been viewed 847 times since then and 22 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on November 16, 2010. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
