Christmas, 1898

Taken from the Children’s Haven, 1898:

 

December 1898

At the turn of the nineteenth century the Manchester Refuges had over four hundred children under its care. Then, as it is today, the charity ran fundraisers to ask the public to donate gifts for the young people at Christmas.

“Please dear readers, help us all you can by sending toys for the little ones; dolls for the girls; knives, pencils, purses, pocket books, for the boys. The children, like all of us, look forward to Christmas, and we wish to make it a happy time for them.

Any over our own needs shall be taken to the Workhouse Schools and Hospitals, which we visit every Christmas.”

At the Christmas Bazaar

Amongst the Christmas doings at the Strangeway Home, none was more popular than the feast which was given by the boys of the Refuge, to their poorer brothers and sisters who were still living on the streets.

“For many weeks past the boys have been saving up, encouraged by the excellent Superintendents, Mr. and Mrs. Wood. Then on Tuesday evening the 27th, the boys sally forth from the Refuge, about 6pm., each at liberty to bring in two of the poorest children they can find. Thus having found their guests, and provided for them, they wait on them, and conclude the evening with a Christmas Tree, whereon is a present for each”.

Christmas Plans at the Refuge

Christmas was also a time for reflection for the charity with many Christian services being attended.

It was a joyful time of the year for the children, just as it is today.

Season’s Greetings from everyone at the Together Trust.