Testimonials concerning orphans employed
by center-city Philadelphia Businesses

The following are a few of the many testimonials received from the employers of the “Lincoln Institution” boys, for a Centennial Album:

The “Lincoln Institution” boys, J. Walter White and George Armstrong, have been employed in the Farmers and Mechanics’ National Bank for over two years, and we cheerfully testify to their regularity, industry and. general good behavior, and feel that they are acquiring such a business education as will enable them to make an independent living, and place them in a respectable position.

Edwin M. Smith, President,
Samuel W. Bell, Cashier.

After much experience with “boys” of all characters and stages of life, it is with much pleasure that we recommend to the general public the boys of the Lincoln Institution. We have found them always to have had that careful home training which serves to make them honest and truthful, and with the two we now have, (Louis Lewis and Samuel Louderback), we must say that they have always conducted themselves so as to merit our respect and esteem, and we see no reason why they should not become good and useful citizens.

J. H. Dallam & Co.,
June 30, 1876. Second and Callowhill Sts.

William N. White and William H. Hunt have been employed by me for about four years. They have proven themselves determined to acquire good business habits and education, and have made themselves already valuable in their positions. I question very much if the Institution which fostered them so faithfully has ever sent from its doors two more worthy lads; certainly, none who have more justly and entirely secured the confidence and regard of their employers than these two.

Charles K. Ide,
Master of Transportation P. W. & B. R. R. Co.

It gives me great pleasure to testify to the unvarying good behavior and industrious habits of David R. Vondersmith, during a period of nearly eight years. A test of the good use he has made of his time was recently given in his preparing from the beginning a group photograph for the Centennial Exposition. To perform this it was necessary to enter a department of photography which he had no training beyond observation of the work of others. The picture was creditably made. I think there is no doubt that in a nominal condition of business Mr. Vondersmith will be able to secure a respectable living, and it may be to rise to a high position in this profession.

Wm. Curtis Taylor,
914 Chestnut Street. June 20, 1876.

Winfield Scott Sheard has been engaged in our law office for upwards of two years. His duties have been to execute various errands, copy and compare documents, and deliver messages. We have always found him entirely adequate to the performance of every duty required of him. He is manly, dignified, and prompt in attending to whatever may be given him to do. His integrity is beyond suspicion or reproach. What his future tastes may be it may be difficult now to determine, but we have no doubt that his talents are such as will qualify him for any occupation in life to which his choice may lead him. We are all much attached to him, and feel that he is entitled to our unqualified respect. Should he remain with us until properly instructed, we have no doubt that he will be able to realize a competent livelihood, and become a useful citizen.

Edward Hopper,
June 21, 1876. 323 Walnut Street.

The Lincoln Institution boys, Joseph H. Martin, John R. Kane, Andrew C. Kane and Edwin Williamson, have been in our employment for about four years, and we cheerfully testify to their regularity, industry and general good behavior, and think they are acquiring such a business education as will enable them to make an independent living and place them in a respectable position as citizens.

Hood, Bonbright & Co.,
June 19, 1876. 813 Market Street.

Richard Woods has been in my employ since February 21st, 1876 during which time I have found him truthful, honest and industrious. He seems anxious to acquire information and business habits, improving rapidly in all good traits of character. He is in a position to acquire business knowledge, and without doubt, make his mark in the world. I consider him a boy of unusual promise.

Wm. H. Lex,
51 N. Sixth Street.

References

1. Lincoln Institution 11th Annual Report, 1877

Document History

• Created by MB 2025-06