File:Backward Child A.jpg

Nothing is known of family nor of previous history, except that he 
was the ward of a benevolent society, and could not get on in a 
school for normal children. Coming to us when 10 years old, was 
a strong, sturdy little fellow with blue eyes, and a shock of beautiful 
dark-red hair. Was bright and active, recognized ordinary colors 
and forms. Knew multiplication table, could read and write, sew 
and knit, and ask intelligent questions. Mischievous and good- 
natured, with fits of sullenness. Did exceedingly well in school ; 
was particularly fond of drawing animals and flowers ; but outside 
was the usual naughty boy. When 12 years old, was tried in the 
drum corps and did very well. Made continued progress, espe- 
cially in drawing and modelling, but was sulky, self-willed, and dis- 
agreeable ; fond of saying smart things to make others laugh, inter- 
rupting routine and needing constant employment to keep him out 
of mischief. In his fourteenth year was given a cornet on which he learned 
to play delightfully, the tones he made being peculiarly clear and 
liquid ; he developed a true, rich baritone voice ; played exceedingly 
well on the saxophone, and was oblivious to everything else during 
his hours of practice. Devoted to music, its refining influence upon 
him has been very perceptible from the inception of his musical stud- 
ies. There began at this time to be a decided change in his disposi- 
tion ; he grew more manly, trustworthy, courteous, and considerate of 
others, and consequently popular with all. Much interested in mili- 
tary and physical exercises and a splendid athlete, he was also an 
omnivorous reader, remembering all that he read. When 17 entered 
the bakery and did excellent work there and also in the carpenter 
shop, where he was very handy with tools.

In his nineteenth year his record reads : " From a naughty, troublesome boy, S. has developed into a

thoroughly manly fellow. Is polite, respectful, and well mannered. 
He is now an excellent barber, shaving over 200 boys each week, 
and keeping the heads of some 350 in order." 

Wishing to try his fortune in the world, he was sent out well

equipped, and was gone for 6 months, but found it hard to compete 
with the rush and drive ; and missing the companionship, the amuse- 
ments, the protection and the refined environment of community life, 
he came back in charge of his own club of boys. He knew " their 
tricks and their manners " handed down through generations, as they 
are in all schools, and understanding them, keeps excellent order and